New Technologies in Self-Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, highly prevalent autoimmune disease that requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and person-centered care. Due to its clinical complexity and unpredictable course, it is essential to adopt a patient's active role. International clinical guidelines increasingly emphasize the integration of personalized self-management strategies into routine care, always in conjunction with effective communication and support of clinicians. In this context, new technologies offer promising opportunities to support accessible, evidence-based, personalized, and scalable interventions for self-management. To better understand their role and potential impact, this chapter first introduces a conceptual framework applied to self-management in rheumatoid arthritis and digital health. Then, we analyze the current evidence supporting specific digital solutions, starting with teleconsultant and its great accessibility for the entire population. This section is followed by an overview of other digital options such mobile apps and artificial intelligence, a technology increasingly emerging to optimize clinical results. Finally, we discuss the existing limitations and challenges associated with the implementation of new technologies in clinical practice, as well as future directions for research and innovation. The main goal of this chapter is to provide an evidence-based update on the use of new technologies in the self-management of rheumatoid arthritis as a transformative opportunity with relevant implications for clinical practice, public health, and innovation in rheumatologic care.