Teaching self-management of diabetes via telehomecare.

This study demonstrates that telehomecare is an effective way to improve patient education and self-management outcomes. The cost effectiveness of this technology makes it an attractive medium for reaching patients who require close monitoring, reinforced teaching, and reassurance. telehomecare can also support caregivers and connect socially isolated individuals to their care providers. The possibilities for using telehomecare are just beginning to be realized. With the advent of PPS, telehomecare may be an effective substitute for visits that focus on teaching and monitoring. It is a new tool in the arsenal for the home care nurse to use for monitoring patients and promoting knowledge and behavior change. The video visits are short, focused opportunities for increased patient teaching; the one-on-one focus, audio-visual aids, and opportunities for patients to use the machines to self-monitor are all positive aspects.