Study: Tracking devices help long-term health management

Business Wire

DEERFIELD - Automated health tracking can significantly improve long-term health engagement, according to the findings of a study conducted by Walgreens and the Scripps Translational Science Institute.

The study examined utilization patterns of participants in Walgreens Balance Rewards for healthy choices, a self-monitoring program that allows members to track health activities and receive incentives for continued tracking and healthy behaviors.

It explored the impact of manual versus automatic data entries through a supported device or via apps, the study results were recently published in the Journal of Medical internet Research.

The results found that 77 percent of users manually recorded their activities and participated in the program for an average of five weeks. However, users who entered activities automatically using the BRhc supported devices or apps remained engaged four times longer and averaged 20 weeks of participation.

"Consumers are increasingly more engaged in their own health care and wellness. Digital technology that enables easy data tracking of healthy behaviors, combined with incentives, and trusted professional support, provide additional motivation for our customers to more easily manage their health," said Harry Leider, M.D., chief medical officer at, Walgreens. "In the two years since it was initiated, we've seen a shift from the majority of members in the program tracking their activities manually, to most now tracking them automatically."

The Walgreens Balance Rewards for healthy choices program can be accessed either online or through the Walgreens mobile app. One of the main features of the program is the use of existing consumer incentives to motivate voluntary participation. Through participation in BRhc, members receive loyalty points redeemable for discounts on purchases.