Method for treating medical conditions using a microprocessor-based video game

A method for treating a medical condition in a human patient comprising the following steps:

• a) choosing a set of self-care directions for treating said medical condition;
• b) encoding a first set of electronic instructions for an interactive video game, said set of self-care directions being embedded in said interactive video game;
• c) loading said first set of electronic instructions into a microprocessor-based unit equipped with a display means for displaying said interactive video game and with an input means for receiving responses to said interactive video game from said human patient;
• and
• d) instructing said human patient how and when to use said microprocessor-based unit to play said interactive video game.

A method for treating a medical condition in a human patient comprising the following steps:

• a) choosing a set of counseling directions for treating said medical condition;
• b) encoding electronic instructions for an interactive video game, said set of counseling directions being embedded in said interactive video game;
• c) loading said electronic instructions into a microprocessor-based unit equipped with a display means for displaying said interactive video game and with an input means for receiving responses to said interactive video game from said human patient;
• and
• d) instructing said human patient how and when to use said microprocessor-based unit to play said interactive video game.

A method for evaluating a medical condition in a human patient comprising the following steps:

• a) encoding electronic instructions for an interactive video game, said interactive video game having a scoring procedure for quantitatively analyzing said medical condition of said human patient;
• b) delivering said electronic instructions to a microprocessor-based unit equipped with a display means for displaying said interactive video game and an input means for receiving responses to said interactive video game from said human patient;
• and
• c) instructing said human patient how and when to use said microprocessor-based unit to play said interactive video game.