What are the benefits and risks of mobile health apps in healthcare?

Actually a lot: - Access of care. - Time response. - Multidisciplinary team availability. - Data record everywhere. - Tracing and building pattern.

I think it's critical to remember that these apps are just one part of a patient's healthcare journey. From my experience, for any health technology to be effective, it must be trusted by its users. This trust has to be earned and re-earned with every use. Unlike the immediate rapport often found in patient-doctor interactions, an app must work harder to build a similar level of confidence - and it must do so without fail every time. To truly serve patients, health apps must consistently perform like an extension of the healthcare provider's office. They should be reliable, user-friendly, and provide a sense of continuity in care. After all, it's important to realize that the app isn't care, it's a tool to serve the care journey.

In my opinion it's impossible to run a modern medical center without an app AND web cabinet (because about 3x patients use web cabinets instead of apps). You need it for: 1. Online scheduling 2. Chat with the physicians 3. Easy access to lab tests and exam protocols 4. Easy billing for private patients.

In NO WAY as some apps are trying today, should we relay in these for any medical info, diagnosis based on symptoms entered, to coordinate medical assistance, or even as some AI apps try to do predict possible future disease .

There will be pressure to use mobile applications much more for relaying medical information brought on mostly by the younger generations which will require astute application of how the data is protected and transmitted. The risk for medical data to be hacked increases every day in my opinion. The financial challenges that healthcare organizations face due to inadequate reimbursement by government and insurance are driving efficiency through the use of technology but in my opinion the risks could outweigh the benefits

In all my talks I include a slide about the mobile app pertaining to Diabetes to drive home the point. Diabetes is not just about taking medicines, it involves change in diet, lifestyle, age and other factors. None of the apps available will cover these and patients end up being affected. The problem for these is because majority of the promoters do not take the doctors input or involve the doctor in the decision making.

All stakeholders - technology companies, healthcare providers, regulators, and users - must collaborate closely to maximize benefits while minimizing harms. With thoughtful policies and evidence-based app development, mobile health can offer huge advantages in cost, convenience and patient empowerment. But we must ensure these tools are safe, effective and designed to augment, not replace, professional medical expertise. The future of healthcare will likely involve a blend of new innovations like apps combined with traditional in-person care.

Over the years of developing health apps I came up with a list of a few practical steps: 1. Choose Reputable Apps! 2. Verify Privacy and Security Policies - before downloading, actually READ the app's privacy policy to understand how your data will be used and protected. 3. Consult Healthcare Professionals - usually they can recommend reliable apps and advise on how to use them. 4. Beware of Over-reliance - use these apps as a supplement to, not a replacement for, professional medical advice. Regular check-ups and consultations with healthcare providers are still essential. 5. Keep the App Updated - regularly update the app to ensure you have the latest features and security enhancements. 6. Use Strong Passwords!

To make an app for medical centers secure you have to follow these rules: 1. No sensitive personal data stored on an app server, outside the secure net segment of your medical center. It means, that all exam protocols and test results are downloaded from EMR via message broker right to the end device. Nothing should be stored on app backend server. 2. API protection. You should ensure that you meet all the guidelines concerning API security - firewall settings, json parsing, SQL/xml injections security, limit of queries from one device. 3. You should perform penetration tests and external audit at least every 6 month.

Recent studies highlight a prevailing mistrust among patients towards AI and data storage in mobile health apps. Addressing this skepticism is crucial for wider adoption. Transparency and patient education can foster trust, showcasing the apps’ benefits in healthcare accessibility and chronic disease management. Healthcare providers should underscore AI's comprehensive testing and human oversight, actively involving patients in their care decisions, and providing clear information about the app's functionalities and limitations. This approach ensures safer, more efficient app usage, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

To build trust, there should be built-in mechanisms when possible to allow users to directly contact healthcare professionals if they have questions or need clarity on something within the app.

Build an online audience from your patient population. This approach provides a direct and accessible channel for healthcare providers to disseminate crucial information regarding patients' conditions and preventive health measures. It fosters a sense of community and trust, encouraging patients to actively engage in their own healthcare journey. Moreover, by offering educational content, you empower patients to make informed decisions about their health, leading to a sense of empowerment, better self-management, reduced health issues, and improved overall well-being. This approach enhances patient satisfaction and strengthens the patient-provider relationship, contributing to more successful and cost-effective healthcare outcomes.