Home-monitoring app boosts patients' understanding of macular disease

A recent study by OKKO Health has revealed significant improvements in health literacy among users of its home-monitoring app.

Health literacy, the ability to understand health information to make informed choices and manage one's own health, is crucial for individuals dealing with conditions such as macular disease.

The study involved 35 participants who completed a health literacy self-assessment questionnaire at the start and after approximately 90 days of using the OKKO Health app.

OKKO Health has developed an app to help people monitor their sight between clinic visits using simple puzzle games played three times weekly. By combining data from clinic and home, the new algorithm project hopes to empower patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and improve the overall management of their condition, by using a simple app on their smartphone.

Key findings

The goal of the study was to assess their initial knowledge and see if the app improved their understanding over time. At the start, 42% of respondents had low health literacy, considered of significant concern for those managing complex conditions like macular disease.

Health literacy levels were consistent across different age groups and men were initially more likely to have lower self-assessed health literacy compared to women. But, after 90 days of app usage, the gap between men and women narrowed.

Improving the app

OKKO Health presented these findings at The Association of Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) conference in Seattle, attended by over 10,000 vision scientists, eye care professionals, and patients. The conference provided a platform to share results, engage in discussions, and gather insights to improve the app’s ‘Learn’ section, which includes information on macular conditions, lifestyle tips and patient stories.

Participating in the conference was a major milestone for OKKO Health. Dr Stephanie Campbell said: “Our participation in the ARVO conference not only allowed us to share our learnings globally, but also provided us with valuable feedback and new ideas to enhance our app.

“We are committed to using these insights to improve health literacy and patient education, ultimately leading to better eye care outcomes for our users.”

Thank you

Sally von Hofsten, product owner at OKKO Health, thanked members and supporters of the Macular Society who have helped test the app and taken part in the recent research. Sally said: “We extend our gratitude to you for taking part in our important study and the ARVO conference attendees who contributed their insights.

“Your feedback is instrumental in helping us refine our app and achieve our goal of improving disease understanding and ultimately patient care.”