By Clinical Informatics News Staff

November 16, 2018 UCB has released PD Coach, a virtual health assistant app for Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. The app is powered by Verint Systems’ Intelligent Virtual Assistant (IVA) solution.

The app features a patented conversational, digital health coach named “April.” April uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to offer continuous support and encourage patient adherence to treatment regimens, transforming the way patients interact with their healthcare. Verint automation powers the solution in hopes that it will modernize patient interactions and improve the overall patient journey for those with Parkinson’s disease, regardless of treatment.

Digital health coaches provide an opportunity for modern, convenient, and continuous care, especially for those suffering from chronic illnesses, such as Parkinson’s disease.

“At UCB, we keep patients at the heart of everything we do. Our PD Coach, April, offers a vital support system to people living with and caring for those with Parkinson’s disease, leveraging AI technology to provide ongoing, personalized support, and access to the resources they need,” said Mike Davis, Head of UCB’s U.S. Neurology Patient Value Unit in a statement.

Davis continues, “We designed the PD Coach to address specific challenges that Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers may face—including its unique ability to learn and adjust to language and vocabulary for patients with dexterity and speech issues. With insights from patients on the challenges they face with disease management, April was created as more than a resource to offer information. April is designed to build a relationship with the patient and help deliver what patients value when it comes to their care.”

The app leverages Verint’s Alme Platform and Behavioral Observation System (BOS) module, allowing it to conduct evidence-based skillful conversations to actively and safely engage consumers in a way that feels natural. This platform also provides PD Coach with general knowledge related to Parkinson’s disease, enabling the digital assistant to speak with patients specifically about the realities of their chronic disease.

“We are proud to be part of this new, leading-edge digital innovation that will be accessible to Parkinson’s disease patients and caregivers. This AI and automation-powered technology creates a new avenue for patients to turn to for help and guidance that has the convenience of an app,” says Verint’s Michael Southworth, general manager, intelligent self-service, in the same statement. “AI and intelligent assistant technology has the ability to transform healthcare and access for patients. With April, we’ve built a resource that can truly meet patients where they are and allow them to take greater control of their health.”

At launch, the app’s key capabilities and features include journaling and symptom tracking. It also has features relating directly to Parkinson’s disease and caregiving, with knowledge that encompasses the following topic areas: PD diagnosis and symptoms, PD progression, UCB patient services, and patient support groups and events. As an AI assistant, April will consistently improve and grow her knowledge with oversight from trainers, personalizing her care support based on the needs of patients and helping them attain real health outcomes.

PD Coach is available now in the Apple and Android app stores. Anyone can download and begin using this digital health coach to help manage Parkinson’s disease.