What are the Six Benefits of Health Apps

Mobile health applications have had an increase in users over the past couple of years. Because of the current Covid-19 pandemic, healthcare software development is currently in demand, making it one of the best opportunities at the moment.

GSMA Intelligence had a study last 2019 stating that around 5 billion people worldwide own a smartphone; this is approximately 66% of the world’s total population. Another research was done by IQVIA, stating that around 318,000 health applications are downloadable in the app store or google play worldwide.

About 200 apps of the same category are being added almost every day, doubling the number of apps currently available since 2015.

There are three categories for healthcare apps, namely:

1. General Health and Wellness Apps –

These are apps that monitor your overall health statuses, such as sleep patterns, daily caloric intake, and stress management.

2. Health Management Apps –

Health management apps can assist patients with specific health conditions such as diabetes and heart diseases and help patients keep track of their medications and their current state.

3. Telemedicine Apps –

These are apps that allow patients to be virtually examined by licensed medical doctors. These apps are often used nowadays due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

So, what is the significance of these apps? They are made to improve our lives and make us healthier than ever! With that, here are six benefits to using these healthcare apps.

Healthcare Apps Reduce the Overall Costs for Both Healthcare Providers and Patients.

A study last 2015 by the IQVIA Institute for Human Data Science concluded that healthcare potential savings would be possible in the future. This conclusion was based on their research about the effects of consumer-centered healthcare apps on the healthcare system. The study also mentioned that wearable devices such as smartwatches and healthcare apps could save at least seven billion USD yearly for the US healthcare system.

The specific research focused mainly on general health and wellness apps such as diabetes care and prevention, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, and asthma care and management. The study also mentioned that if patients and healthcare workers used these apps in many diseases, a whopping 46 billion USD would be saved by the health care system annually.

Fast-forward today, health apps have now been developed to manage a vast number of diseases and health conditions. These apps dramatically affect the overall cost of healthcare for both the patient and the healthcare provider.

Imagine saving gasoline or transportation fees to go to the hospital or clinic. Healthcare providers can also save money from these, and at the same time, if the healthcare worker is renting for their clinic or institution space, they can save a lot of money from just the rent alone.

People would also be more aware of preventive care because of these apps, helping them remain healthy.

Patient Data Collection is Made More Accessible.

The collection of patient data is now more convenient for healthcare providers, thanks to these apps. The traditional method of manually inputting information on forms is now easier for patients; patients can now avoid that lengthy paperwork that usually takes up a lot of time. Apps such as these decrease the use of paper, making it more environmentally friendly.

These apps allow healthcare providers to monitor the overall condition of their patients more efficiently and effectively. Storing data is also more manageable; the doctor just needs to type in the patient’s name and poof; the app will reveal all the details to the healthcare provider; say goodbye to the massive chunk of folders in the clinic.

Communication Between the Patient and the Healthcare Provider is Now Improved.

It is now more convenient to talk to your doctor or healthcare provider with apps such as these. The patient can also convey if their condition is getting worse or better faster. There is no need to go to the hospital anymore because of this!

There is Now an Improved Speed of Consultation for Diseases.

As mentioned previously, health apps make it easier to collect data from patients. The same is true for patients who wish to consult their condition to medical practitioners online. These apps allow patients to connect to a medical practitioner with just the press of a finger.

Covid-19 most likely won’t disappear soon. The number of positive cases has been rising almost everywhere globally; with a surge of new variants and the low supply of vaccines, it might be challenging to leave home go to a hospital or clinic. Healthcare apps can help patients be diagnosed instantly and give instructions to suspected people who may be developing signs of infection without leaving their homes.

Patients are Given More Convenience.

With these apps, say goodbye to long lines and waiting time. In line with these, payment methods are also more convenient now. These apps can link to your bank account or online payment apps, making paying more convenient and hassle-free. You don’t need to withdraw cash to the nearest bank anymore, thanks to these.

Healthcare Apps can Monitor Patient Medication Intake.

Let’s admit it; sometimes, we forget to drink the medications that we need, especially if we’re taking maintenance drugs or supplements. We also sometimes forget to buy medicines from pharmacies, especially if our schedule is hectic. Poor adherence to medication schedules can significantly affect a patient’s condition, especially if they are treated for chronic diseases such as diabetes or auto-immune diseases.

Healthcare apps can monitor the patient’s medication intake and constantly remind them constantly that they need to take their medicine. These apps also remind patients to watch the amount of medicine in their inventory, reminding them that it’s time to replenish their stocks. The app may also inform the doctor that their patient is not adhering to the schedule.

Conclusion

Healthcare apps provide a ton of benefits, whether you’re a medical practitioner or a patient. Diseases, especially preventable ones, cost a considerable amount per year, but thanks to healthcare apps, patients and healthcare workers can save significantly.

Apps such as these provide greater convenience to its patients, allowing them to monitor health conditions such as nutrition and sugar levels, regardless of time or place. Healthcare apps can improve healthcare professionals’ workflow, allowing them to provide a better and faster service.

Share