The use of digital technologies in stroke management in the world: an analysis of examples

Abstract

The aim of this publication is to illustrate the realistic potential of digital technologies – mobile applications, telemedicine, automated analysis systems applied in the several key elements in stroke patient management. According to data provided by WHO, it is estimated that strokes have caused 5.78 million deaths in 2016. Review has been conducted searching for digital health technologies used for stroke management in PubMed database, and several references have been snowballed from the search terms. More and more scientific evidence speak for the efficiency of using digital technologies in care of stroke patients. Unfortunately, most of the recommendations linked to digitalization of patient care are part of guidelines provided by American associations, with no European or Polish equivalents. The chosen technologies (and especially those making primary and secondary prevention feasible) can be easily applied by wide groups of patients and healthcare practitioners. However, more publicly targeted informational and educational campaigns are necessary, together with the development of specific recommendations.