Improving the clinical perception of the efficacy of medical apps

Abstract

Few doubt that there will be substantial benefits from the deployment of apps on smartphones to improve the delivery of health & social care. Evidence, particularly on the cost effectiveness of medical apps, is currently very sparse though. This paper will report on a project carried out as part of the TSB-funded dallas programme to determine what was necessary to improve the perception of medical apps by doctors, with the expectation that they in turn will recommend them to their patients. The vision is to get to a position where doctors are able to offer patients a choice of app or drug (or both) to deal with appropriate conditions, such as depression or anxiety.

A long adolescence: when will medical apps come of age?

“…This evolving and confusing regulatory environment is causing great uncertainty for app developers, patients and physicians alike. Research funded by the UK Technology Strategy Board [13] has highlighted the complex and uncertain regulatory environment as a key barrier for wider uptake of medical apps. These opinions were found in multiple groups including the commissioners of medical services in the UK.…”