JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Sleep problems are common and costly in the U.S. military. There is a gross shortage of trained specialist providers to address sleep problems. Telehealth and mobile health represent promising approaches to increase access to high quality and cost-effective care.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to present preliminary data regarding patient engagement and provider perceived effectiveness gathered during a pilot study of a novel sleep telehealth platform that included a mobile app and integrated wearable sensors (i.e., a commercial off-the-shelf sleep tracker [Fitbit]).

Methods:

Patients with sleep problems were recruited from the Internal Medicine clinic at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Patients completed intensive remote monitoring assessments over ten days (baseline intake questionnaire, daily sleep diaries, 2x/daily symptom surveys), and wore a Fitbit. Following the remote monitoring period, patients received assessment results and personalized sleep education in the mobile app. Providers received a provisional patient-assessment report in editable electronic document format. Patient engagement was assessed via behavioral metrics, and providers completed an anonymous effectiveness survey.

Results:

Thirty-five patients with sleep problems participated in the study. Results indicated a high level of engagement with the sleep telehealth platform. Twenty-four primary care providers also participated. Survey responses indicated high levels of perceived effectiveness and identified several potential benefits from adopting a sleep telehealth approach throughout the U.S. military healthcare system.

Conclusions:

Sleep telehealth approaches represent one potential pathway to increase access to evidence-based care in the U.S. military. Further evaluation of the novel sleep telehealth platform is warranted.