Mobile health and apps news in brief

Our latest mobile health and apps news roundup features health secretary Matt Hancock’s tech vision for the future, which includes the idea that patients can use wearables and diet-tracking apps to prevent them from falling ill. While across the pond, a review has revealed an increased US employer interest in collecting employee health information through wearables and apps. 

Hancock highlights the importance of health apps

Health secretary Matt Hancock has reiterated calls for more focus on the use of health apps in the NHS.

The Department of Health and Social Care’s “technology vision” policy paper, which was launched this week, includes the idea that patients can use wearables and diet-tracking apps in co-ordination with their GP in a bid to keep them healthy and prevent them from getting ill.

They should also be able to use such apps with the knowledge the information is secure and available to care professionals in all settings.

YouGov study claims more than half are likely to use NHS App

A YouGov study for software company Pegasystems has revealed more than half of people questioned are likely to use the NHS App when it is eventually rolled out nationally.

More than 1,500 people were questioned about online public services and their attitudes towards how the government manages their data.

The study revealed 54 per cent  would be likely to use the new NHS mobile app once it launches.

However, 75 per cent said they would be reluctant to grant the government access to information from their mobile phone, such as location and fitness metrics, even if it meant access to better public services.

Medical app Ada launches Global Health Initiative

AI-powered platform, Ada, has launched its Global Health Initiative, which aims to improve access to health technology.

Ada’s initial project partners are the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the largest private US foundation and Fondation Botnar, a Swiss foundation applying the latest technology to improve the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents in low-and-middle-income countries.

The company will use artificial intelligence, human medical expertise and the power of mobile technology to deliver health access to care and guidance at scale.

Daniel Nathrath, CEO and co-founder of Ada said: “Since launching Ada, we’ve heard hundreds of stories about how the app has improved or even saved lives.

“Often these stories come from parts of the world where it can be extremely difficult to see a doctor or get professional medical advice — but where people do own, or have access to, a smartphone. By partnering with organisations that share our vision for the future of healthcare, we are increasing Ada’s impact in developing economies, and moving forward our mission to make quality, personalised care a reality for everyone.”

Figures show an increased employer interest in health apps

A review of employer-based insurance has reportedly revealed an increased US employer interest in collecting employee health information.

Around 21 per cent of employers involved in the review by the Kaiser Family Foundation, said they collect the information through their employees’ mobile apps or wearable devices as part of a wellness programme, Axios has reported.

This figure is up 14 per cent from last year.

Weight Watchers looks to technology as part of re-branding

Weight Watchers UK is updating its tech offering as part of a massive re-branding.

The US company, which is popular in the UK, is changing its name to simply WW and will be more focused on overall health and wellbeing.

As part of this re-branding, WW is planning to improve its Health Habits Focus app, which aims to help those who want to build healthy habits without focusing on weight loss.

WW is also launching a beta version of voice integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, which will enable members to get updates and look up SmartPoints values for their food.