What Patients Think of Health Apps

Supporting the self-management of medical conditions HEALTH APPS AS APPRAISED BY PATIENTS AND PATIENT GROUPS PAGE 1
August 2011
What do patients think of health apps?

PatientView 2011
Editors: Clive Nead Alexandra Wyke Author: Henry Nead Contributors: Andrew Banner Louise Oatham Email contact details: report@patient-view.com
Introduction Finding your way around this guide Six major health challenges for patients 34 categories of health app (each explained with examples) Patient groups on the pros and cons of health apps What patient groups say about the future of health apps Index of the 34 categories of health app Index of the individual health apps mentioned in this report
Page 3 Page 6 Page 8 Page 16 Page 64 Page 68 Page 80 Page 82
This guide maps and grades health apps for their usage and usefulness in the self-management of medical conditions The guide is uniqueeach category of health app is recommended as useful by patient groups
PatientView Plus August 2011
PatientView 2011
Introduction
Health apps can help patients self-manage their medical conditions. What services do health apps provide to help patients self-manage? Which health apps are best at their job?
PatientView 2011
The meaning of the word apps

The term app is an abbreviation of application technological jargon for a computer program. Apps are created by writers, designers, programmers (usually called developers) to perform certain tasks, or to offer certain services. Apps may be written to run on the Internet, on computers, or, more recently, on smartphones. Apps travel everywhere phone owners carry their phones, and so can supply phone owners with continuous service.
Why phone apps are important

60% of the worlds population has a mobile (sometimes called cell) phone. Some 5 billion exist worldwide Mobile phones are owned and used even by some of the more vulnerable and hard-to-reach sections of the population Mobile phones can be used by their owners around the clock, seven days a week Phone apps are normally either free, or affordable to even to the poorer members of society Apps can entertain, provide information, or help the phone owner organise their life Apps work instantly, so the services they provide are available at a moments notice to the phone owner
The problem with appstheir sheer number

Phone apps have only been around as long as smartphones (several years), but, in that brief time, have grown in numbers to become a popular phenomenon. Everyone involved in the provision of healthcare is watching the apps experience closely, aware that patient-oriented health apps have the potential to help patients manage their medical conditions better. Patient-oriented health apps can, for instance, remind patients to take their pills properly (ensuring that the medicines work to best effect). But health apps can also do much more to help patientsfrom simply providing information about diseases, medicines, or medical devices, to tracking patients symptoms. Close on 10,000 medical, health and fitness apps currently exist, with more being conceived every day. Many of the apps are aimed at health professionals. But increasing numbers are designed solely for patientsso many, in fact, that the sheer volume of health apps available makes a patients task of deciding which apps suit them very difficult.
PatientView 2011
This report only includes apps recommended as valuable by patients and patient groups
This report overcomes the problem of identifying which health apps are best for patients by listing apps recommended as useful to patients by some of the worlds greatest experts on patientstheir representative patient groups. The apps mentioned in this report are only those that patient groups have said are valuable to, and well-used by, the patients with whom they are familiar. Some 100 patient groups from around the world told us which apps they think are best, and why. The services provided by these top apps are considerable, and hold the potential to improve the clinical outcomes of patients medical conditions. The apps are categorised in this report according to the ways that they actually help patients.
The report maps patient-oriented health apps to the various health challenges faced by patients during their daily lives
PatientView research has identified 6 overall health challenges faced by patients who are trying to self-manage their medical condition 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Treatment and care Nutrition and diet Interaction with, support for, carers/parents/family/friends Coping with daily living Coping with society at large Travelling around
Each of the above 6 health challenges has, in turn, up to 6 overall types of solution provided by health apps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Patient networking/sharing knowledge Reminders Improving communication Support to deal with symptoms or disabilities Self-monitoring symptoms Patient information
These 6 services provided by apps can be further sub-categorised. In total, we have identified 46 types of health apps.
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Finding your way round this report
This report can, if you wish, be read through from page to page, like a book. The report, though, is also organised around multiple hyperlinks that will take you to the apps of most interest to you.
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To use the hyperlinks in this report

If you wish to follow the reports multiple hyperlinks to the apps of most interest to you, please proceed through the pages as follows:
To use a hyperlink: position your mouse over a piece of hyperlinked text, hold down your Ctrl button until you see a hand or other symbol appear, then left-click your mouse
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Six main health challenges faced by patients
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Health Challenges
To go to the relevant health challenge: you can either manually move from page to page, or you can click on the hyperlink/s.
Page
Health Challenges Treatment and care Nutrition and diet Interaction with, and support for, carers/parents/family/friends Coping with daily living Coping with society at large Travelling around
10 11 12 13 14 15
To use a hyperlink:
position your mouse over a cell, hold down your Ctrl button until a pointed finger or other symbol appears, then left-click your mouse.
PatientView 2011
Supporting the self-management of medical conditions HEALTH APPS AS APPRAISED BY PATIENTS AND PATIENT GROUPS
BACK TO >>
PAGE 10
Health Challenges
Each BLUE cell within the Grid is hyperlinked to pages with more detailed information. To go to any of these other pages: position your mouse over a cell, hold down your Ctrl button until a pointed finger or other symbol appears, then left-click your mouse.
Heath app solutions
Patient networking Pain ToolKit on twitter Social networking with Facebook
Reminders Doctors appointments Pill reminders / dispensers
Improving communication Childrens social skills
Support to deal with symptoms or disabilities Adult ADHD
Self-monitoring / trackers Blood pressure Diabetes Epilepsy Fertility Haemophilia Heart rate Keeping fit (and weight loss) Mood tracking Smoking cessation
Patient information Alzheimer disease Medicines Epilepsy Specific medical conditions PainToolKit on Twitter Post-traumatic stress disorder
Communication with Childrens social skills health professionals Facial expressions Language assistance Sound detection Speech problems Diabetes Epilepsy Food allergy Food intake Gluten allergy Mental wellbeing Non-medical help Sleep Sound detection Sound magnification
PatientView 2011
BACK TO >>
Health Challenges
Heath app solutions
Patient networking Social networking with Facebook
Reminders
Improving communication
Support to deal with symptoms / disabilities Diabetes Food allergy Food intake Gluten allergy
Self-monitoring Keeping fit (and weight loss)
Patient information Specific medical conditions
PatientView 2011
Supporting the self-management of medical conditions HEALTH APPS AS APPRAISED BY PATIENTS AND PATIENT GROUPS
BACK TO >>
PAGE 12
Health Challenges
Reminders Emergencies
Support to deal with symptoms / disabilities Adult ADHD
Heath app solutions
Self-monitoring / trackers Blood pressure Diabetes Epilepsy Fertility Haemophilia Heart rate Keeping fit (and weight loss) Mood tracking Smoking cessation
Patient information Alzheimer disease Medicines Epilepsy Specific medical conditions Pain ToolKit on twitter Post-traumatic stress disorder
Communication with Childrens social skills health professionals Facial expressions Language assistance Sound detection Speech problems Diabetes Epilepsy Food allergy Food intake Gluten allergy Mental wellbeing Non-medical help Sleep
PatientView 2011
BACK TO >>
Health Challenges
Heath app solutions
Reminders Pill reminders / dispensers Pollen count Emergencies
Self-monitoring/ trackers Blood pressure Diabetes Epilepsy Haemophilia Heart rate Keeping fit (and weight loss) Mood tracking Smoking cessation
Patient information Alzheimer disease Medicines Epilepsy Specific medical conditions Pain ToolKit on twitter Post-traumatic stress disorder
PatientView 2011
BACK TO >>
Health Challenges
Heath app solutions
Patient networking/ sharing knowledge Pain ToolKit on twitter Social networking with Facebook
Reminders
Patient information
Emergencies
Alzheimer disease Medicines Epilepsy Specific medical conditions Pain ToolKit on twitter Post-traumatic stress disorder
PatientView 2011
BACK TO >>
Health Challenges
Heath app solutions
Patient networking/ sharing knowledge Pain ToolKit on twitter Social networking with Facebook
Reminders Pill reminders / dispensers Pollen count Emergencies
Improving communication Childrens social skills Communication with health professionals Facial expressions Language assistance Sound detection Speech problems
Support to deal with symptoms / disabilities Anxiety and depression Diabetes Epilepsy Food allergy Food intake Gluten allergy Mental wellbeing Sleep Sound detection
Patient information
Alzheimer disease Medicines Epilepsy Specific medical conditions Pain ToolKit on twitter Post-traumatic stress disorder
PatientView 2011
34 categories of health apps
PatientView 2011
What type of app is it?
Doctors appointments
Managing your appointment times with your doctor

The patient groups that suggested this type of app
Landsforeningen SIND [national mental health group, Denmark] [http://www.sind.dk] National Association of People With AIDS (NAPWA), USA [http://www.naqpwa.org] Regional US neurological group
Percentage of patients known to the groups who currently use this type of app
1% to 10%.
What the groups say about apps for managing appointment times with doctors
You can either enter online, or by smartphone. The app automatically updates either way. Very convenient if a person has quite a few doctors and scheduled appointments. Mobilplanforalle [see next page] is for managing appointments, specifically with professional medical support people.
Continued on next page
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Carers/family/friends
Daily living
Society at large BACK TO >>
Travelling around Health app index
PatientView 2011
Doctors appointments
Managing your appointment times with your doctor

-
Contacts Evolved
- app available from Android
http://android.podnova.com/software/05203.htm
A contact list that enables contacts (including medical contact details) to be organised.
Mobilplanforalle
- Facebook app
http://www.mobilplanforalle.dk
For people with a mental health problem. Aside from its function as a medication manager, also helps organise contacts with medical professionals. Danish language.
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Mood tracking
Helps keep track of a persons mood

The patient group that has suggested this type of app
Hug Action for Mental Health, Scotland [http://www.hug.uk.net]
Percentage of patients known to the group who currently use this type of app
-
What the group says about apps for keeping a track of a persons mood
Useful, because it is often difficult for me to know over time where my mood has gone, and to be aware of developing changes in mood and feeling. This app is helpful for me, and to the professionals I speak to.
Example of this type of app
T2 Mood Tracker
- app available from Apple and Android
http://t2health.org/apps/t2-mood-tracker
Allows users to monitor their moods on six pre-loaded scales (anxiety, stress, depression, brain injury, post-traumatic stress, and general well-being).
[App example suggested by Hug Action for Mental Health]
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Pill reminders / dispensers
Helps keep track of medicines

Patient groups that have suggested this type of app
Caerphilly People First [regional chronic medical conditions group, UK] [http://www.facebook.com/pages/Caerphilly-People-First/115936772073] Landsforeningen SIND [national mental health group, Denmark] [http://www.sind.dk] National Association of People With AIDS (NAPWA), USA [http://www.naqpwa.org] National group that concentrates on a broad range of issues, including carers, family, friends; diabetes; gastrointestinal conditions; palliative care; rare diseases; respiratory problems; and rheumatological conditions, UK Nederlandse Vereniging voor Addison en Cushing Patinten (NVACP) [national rare diseases and endocrine conditions group, Netherlands]
[http://www.nvacp.nl]
1% to 50%.
What the groups say about apps for keeping track of medicines
Helps me take my medication, and not forget.
Examples of this type of app
Pillbox
- app available from Apple
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pillbox/id303851018?mt=8
Allows patients to keep track of their medication list (and that of their familys), and to know which medicines to take at which time.

BACK TO >> Treatment and care Nutrition and diet Carers/family/friends Daily living Society at large BACK TO >> Travelling around Health app index
PatientView 2011
Pill reminders / dispensers
Helps keep track of medicines

-
Mobilplanforalle
- Facebook app
http://www.mobilplanforalle.dk
For people with a mental health problem. Helps manage medication. Danish language.
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Social networking with Facebook
Facebooka social networking site available as an app

Patient groups that have suggested Facebook as an app
Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), Lejweleputswa [local cancer group, South Africa] [http://www.cansa.org.za] Health Organisation for Pudendal Education (HOPE) [international pain group, US-based] [http://www.pudendalhope.org] Hong Society for the Blind [regional eye-disease group, Hong Kong] [http://www.hksb.org.hk/en] Krakow Association for Drug Users Support [local drug-addiction group, Poland] [http://www.ktpu.krakow.pl] Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro [national cancer group, Portugal] [http://www.ligacontracancro.pt] National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) [national osteoporosis group, South Africa] [http://www.osteoporosis.org.za] New Zealand Herpes Foundation [national sexual health group, New Zealand] [http://www.herpes.org.nz] Rare disease group, UK Supporting Asperger Families in Essex (SAFE) [local disability group, UK] [http://www.aspergers.org.uk]
-Percentage of patients known to the groups who currently use this type of app
6% to 50%. 6% is quoted by the Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro and SAFE. 50% is reported by the New Zealand Herpes Foundation.
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Daily living
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Social networking with Facebook
Facebooka social networking site available as an app

What the groups say about Facebook
Facebook is used as a support tool by patients and families. People from all over can be connected. Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), Lejweleputswa Pudendal neuralgia is a rare condition, and because of the personal nature of the disease, many people cannot find support and understanding. These online apps help connect sufferers worldwide to offer support and information regarding chronic pelvic pain (and, in particular, pudendal nerve pain). Very few doctors throughout the world have knowledge of how to treat this condition adequately. It requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Health Organization for Pudendal Education (HOPE) Information and independence. Krakow Association for Drug Users Support Patients can learn about cancer prevention, early diagnosis, treatments, side effects, psycho-oncology, etc. Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro Patients often only want to interact with other patients, and end up managing their questions without having to contact the Foundation directly. National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) Feedback, nationally and internationally. New Zealand Herpes Foundation It is a way of sharing experiences and knowledge. rare disease group, UK People on Facebook have experience in understanding and managing Aspergers syndrome, in giving advice and general support. Nothing is out there on the National Health Service, or in social careboth of which are untrained in autism, so cannot offer support. Supporting Asperger Families in Essex (SAFE)
Facebook
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/facebook/id284882215?mt=8
Facebook itself has apps. One example is Mobileplanforalle [listed two pages previously].
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Communication with health professionals
Enables patients to communicate, and manage their care in conjunction, with health professionals
The patient group that suggested this type of app
National mental health group, USA
1% to 5%.
What the group says about apps for online discussions with heath professionals
-
Relay Health
- Facebook app
http://www.relayhealth.com/patients
Improves online connectivity between patients and healthcare providers. Offers consultations with the patients provider, prescription renewal, appointment scheduling, personal health record management, delivery of lab results, referral requests, and access to medically-reviewed information. Predominately oriented to patients in the USA.
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Pollen count
Provides information on daily pollen count

Respiratory group, Norway Sussex Air Quality Partnership [local group specialising in heart and circulatory diseases, including stroke, and respiratory problems]
[http://www.sussex-air.net]
31%Norwegian respiratory group. 100%Sussex Air Quality Partnership.
What the groups say about pollen count apps

You get a next-day warning when pollen will be in the air, and how much.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Pollen count
Provides information on daily pollen count

Pollenvarsel
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pollenvarsel/id383228780?mt=8
Official pollen forecast for allergy sufferers in Norway, delivered by the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association. Norwegian language.
Sussex Air
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/sussex-air/id409140527?mt=8
Provides latest information on air pollution and air quality levels in Sussex, England.
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Sound detection
Provides alerts about noises around the individual

Hearing Association NZ [national hearing disorders and learning disabilities group, specifically helping with what is said in school classrooms, New Zealand] [http://www.hearing.org.nz]
70% to 80%.
What the group says about apps for monitoring sound

They help the person to understand spoken words from teachers and from other people Hearing Association NZ
[Quote is more appropriate to the other type of app recommended by this group; see the next page.]
Tap Tap
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/tap-tap/id369747181?mt=8
Vibrates when noises are detected.

[App example suggested by PatientView]
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Sound magnification
Magnifies sounds from around the listener

Hearing Association NZ [national hearing disorders and learning disabilities group, specifically helping with what is said in school classrooms, New Zealand] [http://www.hearing.org.nz]
70% to 80%.
What the group says about apps for monitoring sound

They help the person to understand spoken words from teachers and from other people Hearing Association NZ
SoundAMP R
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/soundamp-r/id318126109?mt=8
Captures and amplifies sounds and speech (such as a doctors conversation during a consultation). Recordings can be bookmarked at important points, and exported to computer.
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Social networking with twitter
Twittera social networking site available as an app

Pain Toolkit [informational website sponsored by a pharmaceutical company, UK] [http://www.paintoolkit.org]
2% to 5%.
What the group says about twitter as an app

-
Pain Toolkit on twitter
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/twitter/id333903271?mt=8# http://twitter.com/#!/paintoolkit2
Provides other peoples views on pain management and related subjects [second of the above two weblinks]. Twitter itself is an app [first of the above two weblinks].
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Specific medical conditions
Guides to specific conditions (HIV; diabetes; infectious illnesses)

Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), Lejweleputswa [local cancer group, South Africa] [http://www.cansa.org.za] International Disability Coalition (IDC) [International US-based chronic disease and disability group] [http://www.disabilitycoalition.org]
11%Cancer Association of South Africa. 40%International Disability Coalition.
What the groups say about apps that supply medical guidance and information
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Johns Hopkins POC-IT Guides
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/johns-hopkins-guides-abx-hiv/id429504851?mt=8
A series of vocal guides about three types of medical conditions (HIV, diabetes, and infectious illnesses). Available for purchase individually, or in an integrated mobile and web package.
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Daily living
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Specific medical conditions
Guides to specific conditions (non-Hodgkin's lymphoma; psoriasis)

-
Non-Hodgkin LymphomaCAST
Podcasts on non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/non-hodgkin-lymphomacast/id275391649
PASI Rechner
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pasi-rechner/id431913750?mt=8
Measures severity of psoriasis [psoriasis area and severity index, or PASI]. German language.
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Blood pressure measurement
Blood pressure measurement

Circulatory diseases group, Slovakia
-
What the group says about blood pressure measurement apps

-
Withings Smart Blood Pressure Monitor
http://www.withings.co.uk/en/bloodpressuremonitor?gclid=CO3ly43t76kCFQEf4Qod3FQ8Vw http://store.apple.com/uk/product/H6012ZM/A/Withings_Smart_Blood_Pressure_Monitor
Allows a person to track their blood pressure. Stores and displays data on their blood pressure levels.
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Non-drug medical interventions
Provides non-drug medical interventions (breathing)

Circulatory diseases group, Slovakia
-
What the group says about controlled breathing apps

-
Breathing Zone
http://www.breathing-zone.com http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/breathing-zone-relaxing-breathing/id369838631?mt=8
Helps a person relax. Simple guided breathing exercises slow heart rate, and, over time, can help lower high blood pressure.
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Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Language assistance
Provides assistance in formulating words

Down Syndrome Ireland [national learning disorders group, Ireland] [http://www.downsyndrome.ie] Local neurological, motor neurone disease, and palliative care group, UK Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), West Yorkshire branch [regional neurological group, UK] [http://www.mndassociation.org] National neurological, physical, and learning disability group, Ireland
1% to 10%.
What the groups say about apps that provide assistance in formulating words
I have a limited number of service users using apps. To date, I have only recommended this one. I have difficulty speaking. They help in various ways. Speak it! turns the iPad into a text-to-speech provider.
SmallTalk Aphasia
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/smalltalk-aphasia-female/id310102858?mt=8
Provides a vocabulary of pictures and videos that talk in a natural human voice. For people with aphasia.

PatientView 2011
Language assistance
Predictable (Therapy Box)
http://www.therapy-box.co.uk/predictable.aspx http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/predictable/id404445007?mt=8#
Users can type a message more efficiently by using a word prediction engine, and speak the message using a range of voices. For people with a speech impairment.
Speak it!
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/speak-it-text-to-speech/id308629295?mt=8
Converts text (including emails, documents, web pages, and PDF files) to speech. For people with a speech impairment.
Verbally
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/verbally/id418671377?mt=8
Converts keyboarded text to speech. For people with a speech impairment.
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Language assistance
GracePicture Exchange for Non-Verbal People

http://itunes.apple.com/ie/app/grace-picture-exchange-for/id360574688?mt=8
Encourages independent social interaction. Helps a person to take control of what they want to say through selecting pictures to form a semantic sentence, which they can then share. For people with autism.
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Daily living
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Epilepsy
Provides general assistance to people with epilepsy

Epilepsy Wales [regional neurological and learning disorders group, UK] [no website]
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that provide assistance to people with epilepsy
Supports communication and independence. Aids memory, and improves safety.
Epilepsy Guide
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/epilepsy-guide/id375345255?mt=8
Offers facts about epilepsy, including recovery information, medical advice, and allows a person to list and record the dates and times of their seizures.
BACK TO >>
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Speech problems
Provides general assistance to people with a speech problem

Epilepsy Wales [regional neurological and learning disorders group, UK] [no website] Local group that concentrates on a wide range of issues, including autism-spectrum disorders; carers; diabetes; endocrine conditions; family and friends; gastrointestinal conditions, general health/cross-disease advocacy; learning disorders; mental health problems; neurological problems; respiratory problems; and skin conditions; USA. Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), West Yorkshire branch [regional neurological group, UK] [http://www.mndassociation.org]
2% to 5%.
What the groups say about apps that provide assistance on speech problems
Supports communication and independence. Aids memory, and improves safety. Gives people a voice to communicate their needs and wants. I have difficulty speaking. They help in various ways.
Proloquo2Go
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/proloquo2go/id308368164?mt=8#
Alternative communication solution. Provides natural-sounding text-to-speech voices; symbols; default vocabulary; word prediction. For people who have difficulty in speaking.
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Nutrition and diet
Daily living
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Childrens social skills
Provides children with help in improving their social skills

ADD-vance [local group specialising in carers/family/friends; learning disorders; mental health problems; neurological problems; UK]
[http://add-vance.org]
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that help children develop social skills
They help manage the chaotic, help with structure and performance, and provide reminders and key messages to maintain structure and organisation.
Initiating Social Skills HD
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/initiating-social-skills-hd/id415677689?mt=8
80 videos that help reinforce basic social skills. For children who have difficulties in developing social skills.
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Adult ADHD
Advice on coping with adult ADHD

ADD-vance [local group specialising in carers/family/friends; learning disorders; mental health problems; neurological problems, UK]
[http://add-vance.org]
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that provide support with adult ADHD
They help manage the chaotic, help with structure and performance, and provide reminders and key messages to maintain structure and organisation.
25 Tips to Surviving with Adult ADHD
http://www.appstorehq.com/25tipstosurvivingwithadultad-hdbymarenangelotti-iphone-96829/app
Best 25 tips of practical wisdom from a person who has been working for years with people with ADHD. Also helps identify learning difficulties, or other disorders that can accompany ADHD.
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Daily living
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Gluten allergy
Advice on gluten-free diets and recipes

Gruppo Celiachia della Svizzera Italiana [local group specialising in diabetes; gastrointestinal problems; heart/circulatory diseases (including stroke), Switzerland] [http://www.celiachia.ch] Coeliac UK Beds and Mid Herts Group [local gastrointestinal conditions group, UK] [http://www.coeliac.org.uk/get-involved/local-voluntary-supportgroup/group/beds-and-mid-herts]
1%; and 2% to5%.
What the groups say about apps that provide information about gluten-free foods and recipes
Ready access at point of decision. They all show you which products are safe to eat.
AiC Mobile
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/aic-mobile/id393650916?mt=8
A handbook that lists gluten-free products (in Italy only).
Seriously Good! Gluten Free Living
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/seriously-good-gluten-free/id396080026?mt=8
50 celiac-friendly recipes using fresh, unprocessed ingredients. For people on a gluten-free diet.
PatientView 2011
Food allergy
Screening foods with the potential to cause allergies

Coeliac UK Beds and Mid Herts Group [local gastrointestinal conditions group, UK] [http://www.coeliac.org.uk/get-involved/local-voluntary-supportgroup/group/beds-and-mid-herts]
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that provide information about food ingredients
They show you which products are safe to eat.
Isitinit
- Sainsburys app
http://www2.sainsburys.co.uk/food/allergies-intolerances/help-advice/allery-smartphone-app.htm
Allows a shopper to scan food product barcodes in Sainsburys supermarkets, to check whether contents are likely to cause an allergic reaction. In UK only. [Link not working at time of publication of this report.]
Food Wiz
app available from Android
https://market.android.com/details?id=co.foodwiz.FoodWiz&feature=search_result
Allows a shopper to scan food product barcodes in Asda and Tesco supermarkets. Displays allergy (or ethical) information about contents. In UK only.
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Food intake
Support in managing food intake

Local general healthcare group, UK National group that concentrates on a broad range of issues, including carers, family, friends; diabetes; gastrointestinal conditions; palliative care; rare diseases; respiratory problems; and rheumatological conditions, UK National group that concentrates on carers, family and friends; diabetes; and endocrine conditions, UK Prostate Cancer CanadaSurrey [local group that concentrates on cancer, including rare cancers; carers, family, and friends; general health/cross-disease advocacy; sexual health; and urinary problems, UK] [http://www.pccnsurrey.ca]
1% to 20%.
What the groups say about apps that provide information on the carbohydrate content of foods
You can check the carbohydrate content of food, and keep a diary on your phone, instead of having to carry around several books.
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Food intake
Support in managing food intake

Carbs & Cals Lite
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/carbs-cals-lite-a-visual-guide/id391375913?mt=8#
Allows a person to calculate the amount of calories and carbohydrates in a meal, matching food type and portion size to photographs.
MyFitnessPal
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/calorie-counter-diet-tracker/id341232718?mt=8
Calorie counter with a database of over 1 million foods.
MyNetDiary
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/calorie-counter-by-mynetdiary/id287529757?mt=8#
Calorie counter with a database of over 400,000 foods and a barcode scanner.
Lose It!
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lose-it/id297368629?mt=8
Weight loss app that allows food consumption and exercise levels to be recorded.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Diabetes
Managing blood glucose

Health Care Consumers Association Inc [national general health/cross-disease advocacy group, Australia] [http://www.hcca.org.au] Local diabetes group, UK Local general healthcare group, UK National group that concentrates on carers, family and friends; diabetes; and endocrine conditions, UK National group that concentrates on a broad range of issues, including carers, family, friends; diabetes; gastrointestinal conditions; palliative care; rare diseases; respiratory problems; and rheumatological conditions, UK
1% to 20%.
What the groups say about apps that provide information about managing blood glucose
We dont recommend apps, but tell consumers about them, and encourage them to have a go. We also encourage consumers to share their experiences with others through their self-help groups or consumer forums we host.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Diabetes

Glucose Buddy
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/glucose-buddy-diabetes-helper/id294754639?mt=8#
Data storage utility. Users can manually enter glucose numbers, carbohydrate consumption, insulin dosages, and activities, then view all of the data. For people with diabetes.
Diabetes Buddy Lite
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/diabetes-buddy-lite-control/id387337850?mt=8#
Helps in the management of diabetes. Users can tracks the factors that influence blood sugar levels, monitor fluctuations, plan ahead accordingly, and share data with the doctor.
OnTrack Diabetes
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.gexperts.ontrack&hl=en
Helps to manage diabetes by tracking as blood glucose, food, medication, blood pressure, pulse, exercise and weight.

PatientView 2011
Diabetes

-
DAFNE
http://www.ifreeware.net/download-dafne-online.html
Allows a person to record blood glucose, medication, and upload the information. Contains information on carbohydrates per portion. For people with type-1 diabetes.
Bloodwise
http://www.appstorehq.com/bloodwiseglucose-bloodsugartrackingutility-iphone-76821/app
Records and keeps track of glucose/blood sugar concentration levels on a daily basis.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Mental wellbeing
Activities to improve self-esteem and mental wellbeing

Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association [local eating disorders group, UK] [http://www.swedauk.org] Star Wards [national mental health group, UK] [http://www.starwards.org.uk]
1%.
What the groups say about apps that provide information about managing self-esteem and mental well-being
Angry Birds is a genius application, addictive in a healthy sense(!), providing quality mindfulness in the current jargon. Very absorbinggreat for anxiety in particular, but also for depression. From looking through sites, few apps aim to boost self esteem. The sketchbook mobile is good for supporting people with creative influences, and who may benefit from art therapy via an app. Its practical, and anyone can use it to unwind or express themselves. The Live Happy app appeared good ; it focuses on the positives on a daily basis, so does not come across as too overwhelming. People can choose one or several things they enjoyed doing or found positive in their day/recovery. However, the app looked quite confusing, and may take the focus away from the person doing something positive for themselves by writing down what they have done for other people. Looking at eating apps, they all appeared very unhelpful. We have suggested that what is needed are apps such as pro recovery quotes on a daily shuffle to be a positive influence. Another idea of ours is to have an app that does not focus on BMI or weight, and certainly no mention of dietwhich is most unhelpfulbut an app to support people with diabetes/high blood pressure/glucose intolerances, containing information on their needs, and on helping themselves (which friends and family may also benefit from). More positive apps are needed, aimed at self confidence, motivation, and self esteem. Positive quotes from people who have recovered (or to just make someone smile) can have such a good influence. There are far too many apps focusing on body image, diets, and BMI scales.

Treatment and care
BACK TO >>
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Mental wellbeing
Activities to improve self-esteem and mental wellbeing

Angry Birds
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/angry-birds/id343200656?mt=8
Game containing 270 levels.
SketchBook Mobile
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sketchbook-mobile/id327375467?mt=8 https://market.android.com/details?id=com.sketchbook
Painting and drawing app that allows the user to capture ideas as napkin sketches, or to produce artwork on the go. Contains a paint engine and fluid pencils.
Live Happy
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/live-happy/id317887266?mt=8#
A happiness-booster app that guides the user through a set of daily activities intended to boost Short- and long-term happiness.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Medicines
Drug reference kit

Cystic Fibrosis New South Wales [local group that concentrates on cystic fibrosis; diabetes; endocrine conditions; gastrointestinal Conditions; and respiratory problems, Australia] [http://www.cysticfibrosis.org.au/nsw] Prostate Cancer CanadaSurrey [local group that concentrates on cancer, including rare cancers; carers, family, and friends; general health/cross-disease advocacy; sexual health; and urinary problems, UK] [http://www.pccnsurrey.ca]
6%Cystic Fibrosis New South Wales. 80%Prostate Cancer CanadaSurrey.
What the groups say about apps that provide information about drug reference kits
Fast drug-reference tools. Medscape gives ample information about drugs.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Medicines
Drug reference kit

Medscape
http://www.medscape.com/public/iphone
Assists medical professionals (and patients). Contains prescribing and safety information for 8,000 drugs, a drug interaction checker, and a disease and condition reference list.
Skyscape Medical Resources
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/skyscape-medical-resources/id293170168?mt=8
Used by healthcare professionals, but here recommended by patient groups to patients. Contains information on drugs, interactions, and conditions.
MedCalc
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/medcalc-medical-calculator/id299470331?mt=8#
Contains medical formulas, scores, scales, and classifications.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Keeping fit
Tracker and recorder of fitness activity

Group that concentrates on diabetes and circulatory and respiratory problems, USA Health Care Consumers Association Inc [national general health/cross-disease advocacy group, Australia] [http://www.hcca.org.au] Local group that concentrates on autistic-spectrum disorders; gastrointestinal problems; learning disorders; mental health problems, UK
Percentage of patients known to the groups who currently use this type of app 1% to 5%. What the groups say about apps that provide information about trackers for fitness
We dont recommend apps, but tell consumers about them, and encourage them to have a go. We also encourage consumers to share their experiences with others through their self-help groups or consumer forums we host. Cardio Trainer encourages the user to take regular exercise, and rewards them by showing progress and giving feedback on the dietary choices made, to encourage healthier living. Gives an immediate response.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Keeping fit

Cardio Trainer
http://www.worksmartlabs.com/cardiotrainer/about.php
Tracks and records fitness activity. Gives real-time voice feedback about distance, time, pace, and calories burned. Particularly suited to running, with a pedometer and GPS tracking.
Noom Weight Loss
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.wsl.noom&hl=en
Combines exercise tracking, food logging, and motivation in one package. A user can set up a personal weight-loss plan, track progress, log meals, and be given exercise reminders.
iMapMyRun+
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.mapmyrun.android2&hl=en
Allows a runner to track in real time their route, distance, time, pace, speed, and calories burned. GPS enabled.

PatientView 2011
Keeping fit

-
Fit2run
http://itunes.apple.com/hk/app/fit2run/id422013965?mt=8
Calculates and stores optimal training pace for improvements in running.
Pedometer
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pedometer/id286050544?mt=8
Times training sessions, tracks steps taken, distance travelled, and calories burned. Aims to help in weight loss and staying healthy.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Smoking cessation
Tracker to help quit smoking

Local general healthcare group, UK
Percentage of patients known to the group who currently use this type of app 1%. What the group says about apps that provide information about trackers to quit smoking
-
NHS Quit Smoking
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/nhs-quit-smoking/id359088809?mt=8
Provides a daily message of support during the first 30 days of smoking cessation, plus instant tips and facts. A real-time counter displays the minutes, hours, and days smokefree, and tracks the amount of money saved.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Provides information for people with post-traumatic stress disorder

Local group that concentrates on a wide range of issues, including autism-spectrum disorders; carers; diabetes; endocrine conditions; family and friends; gastrointestinal conditions, general health/cross-disease advocacy; learning disorders; mental health problems; neurological problems; respiratory problems; and skin conditions; USA.
Percentage of patients known to the group who currently use this type of app 2% to 5%. What the group says about apps that provide information about post-traumatic stress disorder
Gives people a voice to communicate their needs and wants.
PTSD Coach
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ptsd-coach/id430646302?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3d2 https://market.android.com/details?id=gov.va.ptsd.ptsdcoach&feature=search_result
Educates a user about PTSD, provides information about professional care, PTSD self assessment, lists support opportunities, and contains tools that can help in the management of daily life. For veterans and serving members of the military and police force.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Haemophilia
Tracker for haemophilia A factor VIII infusions

National haemophilia group, Greece.
-
What the group says about apps that provide information about trackers for Factor 8
People with haemophilia self manage their health condition by being trained to self infuse, on condition that they always communicate with their registered haemophilia centre. So they are free, to a certain extent, to travel and feel free.
FactorTrack
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/factortrack/id376229819?mt=8
Allows a user to track and record haemophilia A factor VIII infusions. A reminder system makes remembering when to infuse easier. Serves as a diary to record bleeds and infusions.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Alzheimer disease
Information for people with Alzheimer disease (and family/friends)

Alzheimers Society [national dementia group, UK] [http://alzheimers.org.uk]
-
What the group says about apps that provide information about brains and Alzheimer disease
The Alzheimer's Society hopes to tackle stigma, and to raise awareness about dementia, with its new 2011 iPhone application.
Brain Map
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/brain-map/id414674617?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4
Highlights the importance of the brain by showing its many different functions on a 3D model of the head which can be superimposed over photos of the user and friends. Clicking on a region of the brain launches information about the area. Illustrates the effects of dementia on the brain.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Facial expressions
Reading and understanding peoples facial expressions

Local learning disorders group, UK
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that provide information about facial expressions
This is a body-language expression quiz. It helps to identify facial changes when people are showing emotions.
Body Language - Expressions
http://www.appbrain.com/app/body-language-expressions/com.Mazuzu.ExpressionTraining
Allows recognition training of fleeting facial expressions known as micro-expressions. Aims to improve skills in recognising concealed emotions in business and personal relationships.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Sleep
Help with sleep

Local learning disorders group, UK
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that provide information about sleep/meditation apps
Meditation help.
Relax and Sleep
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.mizusoft.relaxandsleep&feature=more_from_developer
Contains over 35 ambient sounds, including thunder, a stopwatch, the ocean, birds, rain, crickets, frogs, water, and mechanical noises. Aims to allow a user to create a unique relaxation melody.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Emergencies
Providing support in case of emergencies (ICE)

Regional mental health group, USA
2% to 5%.
What the group says about apps that provide information in case of emergencies (ICE)
-
ICE
http://www.appbrain.com/app/ice/seraphimserapis.ice
Aims to help in case of emergency. Provides information on whom to call, and lists details required by responding medical professionals. For people with a health problem.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Heart rate
Tracking heart rate

Group that concentrates on diabetes, circulatory and respiratory problems, USA
1%.
What the group says about apps that provide information about heart rate apps
Gives an immediate response.
Instant Heart Rate
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/instant-heart-rate-by-azumio/id395042892?mt=8
Uses a smart phones camera to measure heart rate. A real-time chart shows every heart beat. Stored history enables progress to be tracked.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Fertility
Support with conception

Infertility Network UK [national fertility group, UK] [http://www.infertilitynetworkuk.com]
21% to 30%.
What the group says about apps that provide information about fertility
Supports self management (though not fully self-manage).
Fertility Friend Mobile
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fertility-friend-mobile/id443919067?mt=8
Menstrual calendar, period tracker, ovulation chart, and a fertility chart-interpretation tool. Aims for accurate prediction of ovulation and fertile days.
LifeForceTeam Fertility
http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/lifeforceteam-fertility/id364583650?mt=8#
A range of emotional clearing techniques and subconscious reprogramming exercises aimed at increasing fertility. Brings together medical and spiritual factors that influence fertility.
BACK TO >>
Treatment and care
Nutrition and diet
Daily living
PatientView 2011
Healthcare apps: patient groups comment on the pros and cons

The task for apps
The Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA) Inc, of Canberra, Australia identifies the task confronting healthcare apps: We need to provide consumers with tools to manage their own healthcare.
Apps have advantages and disadvantages

The patient groups that recommend the types of apps listed in this report point out some of the ways in which apps succeed in constituting a major step forwardpossibly even a revolutionin patient self-management. The patient groups also observe the potential limitations of healthcare apps.
PatientView 2011
The advantages of healthcare apps

Apps help patients self manage their condition
Apps contribute to the patient actively participating in their own recovery. Civic Association Kolumbus, Czech Republic Apps that are well designed and easy to use can be of enormous benefit in enhancing people's ability to self-manage. Multiple Sclerosis Society Ireland (MS Ireland) Such tools will encourage self-efficacy. National Association of People With AIDS (NAPWA), USA The scope is enormous in terms of ... information, coping resources. Star Wards, UK, mental health Can provide incentives for good behaviours. Autism group, UK
Apps educate patients about their own condition

Fingertip access to information allows people to understand their medical condition. Endocrine group, UK Social media apps are portable, and people can use them to enter data real time, and get fast feedback. Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA) Inc, Canberra, Australia
Apps help patients to contact, and learn from, their peers

The scope is enormous in terms of social connection. Star Wards, UK, mental health They are helpful from a social contact viewpoint. Cancer group, UK Apps are a good way to engage with people. Autism group, UK
Apps improve patients ability to partner with health professionals

Education and empowerment of patients (through apps) is essential for working in partnership with their healthcare provider. Endocrine group, UK Can share with their treating team as required. Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA) Inc, Canberra, Australia PatientView 2011
Such tools ... improve provider-patient relations. National Association of People With AIDS (NAPWA), USA
Apps are less expensive than other forms of patient support

Apps support independence, and are a cheaper alternative to social care. Epilepsy Wales
The hurdles that health apps need to overcome

Apps should not be seen as a replacement for professional care
Consumers need to know that apps are guides only, and do not necessarily replace the care plan that patients have developed with their treating team. Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA) Inc, Canberra, Australia They serve in assisting in understanding of self-management, but should still require discussion with a qualified physician. Us Too-Wichita It must not be allowed to replace regular contact with a competent medical practitioner. Neurological group, UK
Apps are not available for all medical conditions

Very few apps are addressing this market. National Association of Deafened People (NADP), UK There should be devices that really work for the blind and visually impaired. PXE International, USA
Policing/regulation of apps is needed

Only if the information provided is ... policed or regulated to ensure impartiality. Cancer group, UK
The information in apps needs to be free of vested interests

Only if the information provided is reliable, factual, independent, unbiased, is not influenced by any vested interests Cancer group, UK
PatientView 2011
The information in apps needs to be accurate and of high quality

If theyre well researched and reliable regarding medical information. Cancer group, UK One area of concern with apps, however, is the safety of the parameters that are set, and the clinical assumptions underpinning the app. Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA) Inc, Canberra, Australia
Regular updating of the information in apps is necessary

Some need updating. Neurological group, UK
Apps sometimes need to be tailored to national markets

Apps with voice-active systems, though, need to have a national, rather than an American, accent. The latter often puts our service users off their use, and can sound patronising. ADD-vance, UK
Many older people do not use apps

Apps have limited use among older people. Heart group, UK It will take time for the older patients to get hooked on the idea. National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) For the younger members. Diabetes UK, Barnet Voluntary Group
Some patients may find some apps too expensive

Some need to be more affordable. Neurological group, UK
Design costs may prevent the creation of needed apps

I have some concerns about how funding for such apps/hardware will be sourced, though. Learning disorders group, UK
Technical limitations still hinder apps

Smart phones are still too slow, and the screen is too small. Patient group, Spain PatientView 2011
Patient groups comment on the future of apps

as a tool for patient self-management of conditions
PatientView 2011
Do you think that apps have a future as a tool for the self-management of people's medical conditions?
Name of group
National Association for People with Mental Handicap of Albania (NAPMH) Cystic Fibrosis Australia
Specialty
Country
Geographic remit Response
General health/cross-disease advocacy. Learning disorders. Albania Mental health problems. Sexual health Diabetes. Rare diseases. Respiratory Cystic fibrosis. Diabetes. Endocrine conditions. Gastrointestinal. Respiratory Australia
National
Yes.
National
Yes.
Cystic Fibrosis NSW
Australia
Local or regional within a single country
Yes. Absolutely. We need to provide consumers with tools to manage their own healthcare. Social media apps are portable, and people can use them to enter data real time, and get fast feedback. Developers are very good at designing apps that are easy to use. It would be great for patients to have the capacity to upload results into their electronic health record, so that they can share with their treating team as required. One area of concern with apps, however, is the safety of the parameters that are set, and the clinical assumptions underpinning the app. Consumers need to know that apps are guides only, and do not necessarily replace the care plan that patients have developed with their treating team. Yes, because the information on the Internet is easily accessible. Absolutely. In my own case, I use my browser to access my ehealth to find my international normalised ratio (INR) lab result. My group also makes information disks for newly-diagnosed men using an app called Circus Ponies NoteBook. This app writes to a DVD, and men use their web browser to run it.
Health Care Consumers Association (HCCA) Inc, Canberra, Australia
General health/cross-disease advocacy
Australia
[Foundation Compassion Alzheimer Bulgaria]
Alzheimer disease. Mental health problems
Bulgaria
Prostate Cancer Canada Network (PCCN) - Surrey
Cancer (including rare cancers). Carers, family, friends. General health/crossdisease advocacy. Sexual health. Urinary
Canada
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country
Civic Association Kolumbus
Mental health problems
Czech Republic Denmark
National
Apps contribute to the patient actively participating in their own recovery. Certainly. It is only in a developing phase.
Landsforeningen SIND
Mental health problems
National
ADHD. Mental health problems Mental health problems. Neurological. Parkinson's disease General health/cross-disease advocacy. Learning disorders
Denmark
National
Yes, but the correct apps are needed.
Pszichitriai rdekvdelmi Frum (PF)
Hungary
National
Yes.
Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI)
Ireland
National
Yes.
Irish Deaf Society (IDS)
Cancer (including rare cancers). General health/crossdisease advocacy. Learning Ireland disorders. Mental health problems. Palliative
National
Yes.
Multiple Sclerosis Society Ireland (MS Ireland)
Multiple sclerosis. Neurological
Ireland
National
Absolutely. Apps that are well designed and easy to use can be of enormous benefit in enhancing people's ability to self-manage. They can help to reduce the negative impact of neurological impairment (such as forgetfulness), helping people to track symptoms, and remember to take exercise and medications, log sleep patterns, and use the information to provide a fuller and more accurate account to medical practitioners of how their illness is negatively impacting their life.
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country
Learning disorders. Neurological. Physical disability
Ireland
National
Yes. I am very optimistic about the use of apps for service users who have limited verbal skills, and can use hand-held devices as an augmentative communication tool. I have some concerns about how funding for such apps/hardware will be sourced, though. Could be helpful.
Nederlandse Vereniging voor Addison en Cushing Patinten (NVACP)
Endocrine conditions. Rare diseases. Hearing and understanding what is said in classes. Learning disorders Sexual health Heart/circulatory diseases (including stroke) Asthma and allergies
Netherlands
National
Hearing Association, The
New Zealand
National
Yes, if managed right.
New Zealand Herpes Foundation (NZHF) -
New Zealand
National Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country
Not entirely for the area in which we work. Yes, definitely, as our client group becomes more computer literate. Oh yes.
New Zealand
Krakowskie Towarzystwo Pomocy Uzalenionym (KTPU) Associao Portuguesa de Doentes da Prstata (APDPrstata) Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro
Norway
HIV/AIDS. Illicit drugs addiction
Poland
Yes.
Prostate cancer
Portugal
National
Yes.
Cancer (including rare cancers)
Portugal
National
Yes. I think it is important.
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country
Heart/circulatory diseases (including stroke)
Slovakia
National
Yes.
Cancer (including rare Cancer Association of South cancers). Carers, family, Africa (CANSA), Lejweleputswa friends. Palliative National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa (NOFSA) Gruppo Celiachia della Svizzera Italiana Trkiye Hemofili Dernei Endocrine conditions. Osteoporosis. Rheumatological conditions Immune conditions Diabetes. Gastrointestinal. Heart/circulatory diseases (including stroke) Hemophilia
South Africa
Yes.
South Africa
National
Yes, although it will take time for the older patients to get hooked on the idea. In the future. Smart phones are still too slow, and the screen is too small. Computer-based systems are easier. Indeed.
Spain
International Local or regional within a single country National
Switzerland
Turkey
Definitely. Yes, absolutely. As more phones have apps available to be downloaded and carried everywhere, the more people will use them. Apps with voice-active systems, though, need to have a national, rather than an American, accent. The latter often puts our service users off their use, and can sound patronising.
ADD-vance
Carers, family, friends. Learning disorders. Mental health problems. Neurological
United Kingdom
Diabetes UK, Barnet Voluntary Group
Diabetes
United Kingdom
Yes, for the younger members.
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country
Caerphilly People First
Carers, family, friends. Diabetes. General health/crossUnited disease advocacy. Learning Kingdom disorders. Mental health problems. Sexual health Gastrointestinal Learning disorders. Neurological Mental health problems United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom
Yes.
Coeliac UK, Beds and Mid Herts Group Epilepsy Wales
Local or regional within a single country National Local or regional within a single country
Yes for gluten free. Scanning a product, and being told if it is safe, or being able to get a list of products in a category that are safe, are invaluable. Yes. They support independence, and are a cheaper alternative to social care. Yes. They can be good to use for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), etc. They can support self management, though not fully self -manage.
Hug Action for Mental Health
Infertility network
Infertility
National
Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), West Yorkshire Branch Myasthenia Gravis Association (MGA), Swansea and District Branch National Association of Deafened People (NADP)
Neurological
United Kingdom
National
In my problem area, yes.
Neurological. Rare diseases
United Kingdom United Kingdom
Absolutely, yes. Apps certainly have the potential to make life easier for deaf people, though, at present, very few apps are addressing this market.
Deafness
National
Coeliac Society UK, Nottinghamshire Group
Coeliac disease
United Kingdom
National
Yes.
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Mental health problems. Multiple sclerosis. Neurological. Pain. Palliative. Rheumatological conditions Autism/Asperger syndrome. Carer, family, friends. Mental health problems Cancer (including rare cancers). Gastrointestinal. Urinary
Country
Pain Toolkit
United Kingdom
International
Yes, very much so, and our organisation is developing them on an on-going basis. Definitely not in the case of autism, because it cannot be managed this way. Autism requires personal and professional interventions. All Apps can do is provide (maybe) certain information, and signposting, but not management. Yes. Anything that would make ostomists lives easier would be helpful. Absolutely. There are probably some excellent selfmanagement apps for people with mental illness. The scope is enormous in terms of social connection, information, coping resources (eg, soothing, distracting, etc). Yes, as part of a personal health management plan. Absolutely, if there are more positive, supportive apps that people could easily access. Only if theyre well researched and reliable regarding medical information. They are helpful from a social contact viewpoint. Yes, although I think people with certain diseases are more likely to use general apps (such as medicine trackers) than apps geared towards them specifically.
Supporting Asperger Families in Essex (SAFE)
United Kingdom
Solent Ostomates Support Group (SOS)
United Kingdom
Star Wards
Mental health problems.
United Kingdom
National
Sussex Air Quality Partnership (SAQP) Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association (SWEDA)
Heart/circulatory diseases (including stroke). Respiratory. Eating disorders
United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom
Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country
Cancer (including rare cancers). Gastrointestinal Carers, family, friends. Diabetes. Gastrointestinal. Palliative. Rare diseases. Respiratory. Rheumatological conditions
United Kingdom
National
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Cancer (including rare cancers). Carers, family, friends. Palliative Hepatitis C
Country
United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom

Yes, in terms of outcome measurement.
National
Yes.
Gastrointestinal. Rheumatological conditions
Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country
Yes.
Diabetes Autistic-spectrum disorders. Gastrointestinal. Learning disorders. Mental health problems Acquired brain injury. Neurological Motor neurone disease. Neurological. Palliative
Definitely.
United Kingdom
Yes. Apps are a good way to engage with people, and can provide incentives for good behaviours.
United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom United Kingdom
National
Im unsure. Very much so, particularly if speech therapists and occupational therapists recommend them, instead of more expensive and outmoded devices like Lightwriters. Yes.
Neurological
National
Chronic conditions
Yes, especially in the easy-to-use diary format.
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Cancer (including rare cancers). Gastrointestinal. Skin conditions. Coeliac disease. Gastrointestinal Carers, family, friends. Diabetes. Endocrine conditions Carers/family/friends. Fibromyalgia
Country

Only if the information provided is reliable, factual, independent, unbiased, is not influenced by any vested interests, and is policed or regulated to ensure impartiality. Yes.
United Kingdom
National
Yes.
Without a doubt.
Carers, family, friends. Neurological
United Kingdom
National.
It may be useful for some, but by no means all, patients, and it must not be allowed to replace regular contact with a competent medical practitioner. Yes, but some need updating, and to be more affordable. Apps have limited use among older people (who may not have or understand computers). Yes, probably. Currently, we do not have the expertise to write one. Yes. Fingertip access to information allows people to understand their medical condition. Education and empowerment of patients is essential for working in partnership with their healthcare provider.
Neurological Carers, family, friends. Heart/ circulatory diseases (including stroke) Carers, family, friends. Skin conditions
National
National
International
Endocrine conditions
United Kingdom
PatientView 2011
Do you think that apps have a future as a tool for the self-management of peoples medical conditions?
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country

It very much depends on the patients medical and physical condition. A face-to-face consultation with a health professional may be as useful, if not more beneficial. Yes.
Rare diseases
United Kingdom
National
Hyperacusis Network
Carers, family, friends. Hearing disorders. Rare diseases
United States
International
Diabetes. Gastrointestinal. Heart/circulatory diseases International Disability Coalition (including stroke). Mental (IDC) health problems. Multiple sclerosis. Rare diseases. Urinary Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA), Upstate NY Chapter National Association of People With AIDS (NAPWA) Cancer (including rare cancers). Neurological. Respiratory. Sexual health HIV/AIDS. Mental health problems. Sexual health. Carers, family, friends. Neurological. Pain. Rare diseases. Sexual health. Urinary Pseudoxanthomaelasticum. Vision loss Cancer (including rare cancers) Gastrointestinal. Neurological. Rare diseases
United States
International
Yes.
United States
No.
United States
National
Yes, definitely, because such tools will encourage selfefficacy, as well as improve provider-patient relations.
Pudendal Nerve Organization HOPE
United States
International
Yes, most definitely.
PXE International
United States
Unfortunately, no. But there should be devices that really work for the blind and visually impaired. They serve in assisting in understanding of selfmanagement, but should still require discussion with a qualified physician. No.
Us Too- Wichita
United States
International
Wilson Disease Association (WDA)
United States
International
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country

Autism-spectrum disorders Genetic disorders. Movement disorders. Neurological. Rare diseases Mental health problems
United States
Yes.
United States
International
I am unsure.
United States
Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country
Definitely.
Essential tremour
United States
Yes.
Respiratory Diabetes. Heart/circulatory diseases (including stroke). Respiratory Cancer (including rare cancers). Hormone refractory prostate cancer Myasthenia gravis
United States
Yes, I have no doubt that they will play a part in the future. I think that physicians will spur on use of apps.
United States
Yes.
United States
International
Yes.
United States
Local or regional within a single country Local or regional within a single country
Yes.
Neurological
United States
Yes, most assuredly.
PatientView 2011
Continued
Name of group
Specialty
Country

Epilepsy. Neurological Carers, family, friends. General health/cross-disease advocacy. Learning disorders. Mental health problems Chronic medical conditions. Disability
United States
Yes, absolutely.
United States
Absolutely.
Disability Promotion and Advocacy (DPA) Vanuatu
Vanuatu
National
Yes.
PatientView 2011
Appendix: Categories of health app
PatientView 2011
Category of listed health app Adult ADHD Alzheimer disease Blood pressure measurement Childrens social skills Communication with health professionals Diabetes Doctors appointments Emergencies Epilepsy Facial expressions Fertility Food allergy Food intake Gluten allergy Haemophilia Heart rate Keeping fit (and weight loss) Language assistance Medicines Mental wellbeing Mood tracking Non-drug medical interventions Pain ToolKit on twitter Pill reminders / dispensers Pollen count Post-traumatic stress disorder Sleep Social networking with Facebook Social networking with twitter Sound detection Sound magnification Specific medical conditions Speech problems Smoking cessation PatientView 2011
Page 40 58 32 39 24 45, 46, 47 17, 18 61 37 59 63 42 43, 44 41 57 62 52, 53, 54 34, 35, 36 50 48, 49 19 33 29 20, 21 25, 26 56 60 22, 23 29 27 28 30, 31 38 55
Appendix: Index of individual health apps
PatientView 2011
Name of listed health app 25 Tips to Surviving with Adult ADHD AiC Mobile Angry Birds Bloodwise Body Language - Expressions Brain Map Breathing Zone Carbs & Cals Lite Cardio Trainer Contacts Evolved DAFNE Diabetes Buddy Lite Epilepsy Guide Facebook Factor Track Fertility Friend Mobile Fit2run Food Wiz Glucose Buddy Grace ICE iMap My Run+ Initiating Social Skills HD Instant Heart Rate Isitinit Johns Hopkins POC-IT Guides LifeForceTeam Fertility Live Happy Lose It!
Page 40 41 49 47 59 58 33 44 53 18 47 46 37 22 and 23 57 63 54 42 46 36 61 53 39 62 42 30 63 49 44 MedCalc Medscape Mobileplanforalle MyFitnessPal MyNetDiary NHS Quit Smoking Non-Hodgkin LymphomaCAST Noom Weight Loss OnTrack Diabetes PainToolkit on twitter PASI Rechner Pedometer Pillbox Pollenvarsel Predictable Proloquo2Go PTSD Coach Relay Health Relax and Sleep Seriously Good! Gluten Free Living SketchBook Mobile Skyscape Medical Resources SmallTalk Aphasia SoundAMP R Speak it! Sussex Air T2 Mood Tracker Tap Tap Twitter Verbally Withings Smart Blood Pressure Monitor 51 51 18 and 21 44 44 55 31 53 46 29 31 54 20 26 35 38 56 24 60 41 49 51 34 28 35 26 19 27 29 35 32
PatientView 2011
http://www.patient-view.com http://twitter.com/PatientView (twitter) http://patientview.posterous.com (blog) Woodhouse Place, Upper Woodhouse, Knighton, LD7 1NG, UK Tel: 0044-(0)1547-520-965 e-mail: info@patient-view.com PatientView plus, August 2011
PatientView 2011

What Patients Think of Health Apps

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What Patients Think of Health Apps

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Supporting the self-management of medical conditions HEALTH APPS AS APPRAISED BY PATIENTS AND PATIENT GROUPS PAGE 1

What do patients think of health apps?

Page 3 Page 6 Page 8 Page 16 Page 64 Page 68 Page 80 Page 82

PatientView Plus August 2011

The meaning of the word apps

Why phone apps are important

The problem with appstheir sheer number

Finding your way round this report

To use the hyperlinks in this report

Six main health challenges faced by patients

Heath app solutions

Patient networking Pain ToolKit on twitter Social networking with Facebook

Reminders Doctors appointments Pill reminders / dispensers

Improving communication Childrens social skills

Support to deal with symptoms or disabilities Adult ADHD

Heath app solutions

Patient networking Social networking with Facebook

Self-monitoring Keeping fit (and weight loss)

Patient information Specific medical conditions

Patient networking Pain ToolKit on twitter Social networking with Facebook

Improving communication Childrens social skills

Support to deal with symptoms / disabilities Adult ADHD

Heath app solutions

Heath app solutions

Patient networking Pain ToolKit on twitter Social networking with Facebook

Reminders Pill reminders / dispensers Pollen count Emergencies

Improving communication Childrens social skills

Support to deal with symptoms / disabilities Adult ADHD

Heath app solutions

Improving communication Childrens social skills

Support to deal with symptoms / disabilities Adult ADHD

Heath app solutions

Reminders Pill reminders / dispensers Pollen count Emergencies

34 categories of health apps

What type of app is it?

Managing your appointment times with your doctor

Continued on next page

Treatment and care

Nutrition and diet

Society at large BACK TO >>

Travelling around Health app index

What type of app is it?

Managing your appointment times with your doctor

- app available from Android

Treatment and care

Nutrition and diet

Society at large BACK TO >>

Travelling around Health app index

What type of app is it?

Helps keep track of a persons mood

Example of this type of app

- app available from Apple and Android

Treatment and care

Nutrition and diet

Society at large BACK TO >>

Travelling around Health app index

What type of app is it?

Pill reminders / dispensers

Helps keep track of medicines

Examples of this type of app

- app available from Apple

Continued on next page

What type of app is it?