The Chronic Care Connect (CCC) Pilot Programme and the Jamaica Moves mobile application have been officially launched as part of efforts to strengthen the management of chronic diseases across the island.

The free Jamaica Moves app, developed under the health systems strengthening programme, with support from the European Union, allows users to track their physical activity and monitor key health indicators, including blood pressure, blood sugar and weight, directly from their smart phones.

While the Chronic Care Connect pilot introduces a more proactive, patient centred approach to managing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and hypertension.

The one year pilot will involve approximately 600 volunteer patients, across six health centres.

Speaking at the launch in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Christopher Tufton noted that the application was designed with the Jamaican user in mind, incorporating features tailored to local circumstances and health care needs, to make it more relevant and accessible.

He said Jamaicans must embrace the use of technology in health care, noting that encouraging widespread adoption of the platform will be a key part of the initiative’s success.