One of the key advantages of mobile technology for clinical staff is getting the real-time information they need when and where a medical decision has to be taken about a patient.
Nigel Harley of - ML Electronics Ltd - 9:43:32am Aug-13th
Isn't the point that with the technology behind smartphones, we can now think differently with the interaction of technology. Instead of 'designing a usefull app' to a mindshift change of 'our customers expectation of how an app should interact' I agree with Nick Hunn that we have to think carefully as the number of smartphones in use is lower... however today's needs will soon be replaced by tomorrow's expectations.
Chris Dyke of - MedilinkWM - 12:33:46pm Jul-22nd
I agree with all of the comments here. Yesterday's event really highlighted the immense opportunity healthcare Apps can be for companies, but that there are several issues to be aware of.
But mobile Apps are no different than other healthcare products, they need to start with the end-user in mind.
George MacGinnis of - PA Consulting - 12:02:10pm Jul-22nd
With the personalisation agenda rarely out of the news and NHS efficiency savings of 20% required over the next 3-5 years to meet demands of an ageing population, the healthcare system is under pressure to change. This provides a massive opportunity for industry and the development of mobile technology in what is still a heavily paper-based world. The NHS is complex and this means change is slow. There is a strong case for mobile Apps at point of care in hospitals, in community settings and for patient self care (for patient ID and safety, e-prescribing, referrals and ordering, decision support, location/presence and logistics). However, developers should consider some key questions: Who is the target audience? What does the user really need the App for? Can the App be integrated into the current healthcare system? And what is the longevity of the App for the user?
Nick Hunn of - Mobile Data Association - 11:05:17am Jul-22nd
I agree, but it is vital that developers of Apps consider their market carefully. The number of smart phone / iPhone users is still very small in comparison to the number of mobile phones in use today, and purchasers of them tend to be those with more disposable income and the less critical medical need. Therefore, think carefully about who are you writing your App for.
