In Thailand, several electronic-based clinical decision support systems have been developed to monitor patient outcomes, including those for NCDs. One notable tool is a self-monitoring application that allows patients to track their health parameters, leading to more proactive management of their condition. These tools have several advantages, such as enabling continuous health monitoring and providing real-time data to patients and healthcare providers, empowering patients by giving them control over their health data, and enhancing accessibility, especially in remote areas with limited access to healthcare facilities. However, there are also disadvantages, including challenges related to technology access and literacy, especially among older populations or those in very remote areas. Additionally, ensuring the privacy and security of patient data can be a concern, and over-reliance on electronic tools might reduce necessary face-to-face interactions with healthcare providers.
Using a nurse or community health worker facilitated NCD management tool is a viable option to address the shortage of healthcare workers in remote areas. These tools can help bridge the gap by enabling CHWs to provide better care and support. The advantages include increased coverage, as CHWs can reach more patients in remote areas, providing essential health services and monitoring, cost-effectiveness compared to deploying more highly specialized healthcare workers, and better community engagement due to CHWs’ understanding of local communities. However, there are disadvantages such as significant investment required for training CHWs and nurses to use these tools effectively and the persistent resource limitations in remote areas despite the presence of such tools. Alternative options to address the shortage of healthcare workers and promote quality care for NCD patients include expanding telemedicine services to connect remote patients with specialist care without the need for physical travel, deploying mobile health clinics to bring healthcare services directly to remote areas on a regular basis, and empowering patients through community health education programs to promote self-care and better health management. Combining these approaches can help address the shortage of healthcare workers and improve the quality of care for NCD patients in remote areas.