iHealthBeat: Mobile Health

Mobile Health Tools Should Be Better Tailored To Meet Patient Needs

Tue, 26 Jan 2016 17:46:00 Z

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association finds that to improve patient engagement, mobile health devices must be designed to meet patients' needs. The study finds patients who are healthy are more likely to consistently use multiple health tracking devices, compared with those who have chronic illnesses. FierceMobileHealthcare, JAMIA.

Many Mobile Health Apps Approved by FDA, NHS Face Security Risks

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 17:31:00 Z

A new report finds that many mobile health applications approved by FDA and the United Kingdom's National Health Service face security risks. Eighty-six percent of 71 apps examined in the report have at least two critical security vulnerabilities, including the majority of FDA- and NIH-approved apps examined by researchers. MobiHealthNews et al.

Privacy, Data Concerns Must Be Addressed for Wearables To Take Off

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 19:00:00 Z

A new Forrester report finds that that health care providers and payers typically avoid data collected by wearable devices because of privacy and data protection concerns. The report recommends that health care CIOs build an infrastructure for such data that ensures user privacy, while integrating the data with health record systems in real time. FierceMobileHealthcare.

App Association Notes Benefits, Shortcomings of HIPAA Guidance

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 14:37:00 Z

App Association Executive Director Morgan Reed says new guidance from HHS' Office for Civil Rights that aims to help patients access their health information will help to improve application makers' understanding of how certain product functions are acceptable under HIPAA. However, he says more guidance is needed. Health Data Management.

Fitbit Suit Raises Regulatory Questions for Fitness Tracking Devices

Fri, 08 Jan 2016 16:32:00 Z

Three plaintiffs have filed a class-action lawsuit against Fitbit, alleging that the company deceptively marketed its heart-rate monitoring devices. Although FDA does not regulate such devices, some experts say the devices' health implications warrant it. Modern Healthcare, MobiHealthNews.

Study: Health IT Tools Can Help Teens Self-Manage Type 1 Diabetes

Thu, 07 Jan 2016 18:41:00 Z

A recent study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research finds that various technologies, such as text messaging and mobile applications, can help teenagers self-manage their Type 1 diabetes. However, the use of diabetes websites was linked to worse glycemic control. FierceHealthIT, JMIR.

IBM Partners With Under Armour on Fitness-Tracking Platform

Thu, 07 Jan 2016 18:22:00 Z

IBM has announced a new partnership with Under Armour that will leverage Watson's data analysis capabilities for "timely, evidence-based coaching about health- and fitness-related issues." IBM also announced a new initiative under its partnership with Medtronic to develop an alert system for diabetes patients. IDG News Service/Computerworld et al.

Report Finds Few Patients Use Hospital-Provided Mobile Apps

Wed, 06 Jan 2016 18:15:00 Z

A new Accenture Report finds that 66% of the 100 largest U.S. hospitals offer mobile health applications to their patients, and 38% have developed in-house apps. However, just 2% of patients are using the hospital-provided apps, which could cost each hospital, on average, more than $100 million in revenue annually. Healthcare IT News, Accenture release.

Report: Connected Health Technology Market To Reach $117B by 2020

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 18:16:00 Z

A report by ACT | The App Association finds that the connected health technology market is expected to reach $117 billion by 2020. Meanwhile, the report finds the industry is likely to place greater emphasis on chronic condition management, personal fitness and wellness, and remote patient monitoring. FierceMobileHealthcare, ACT | The App Association report.

On-Demand Health Care: Striking a Balance Between Needs and Wants

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 12:30:00 Z

As the health care industry moves away from cost and focuses on value, technology is the first brick in bridging the gap between the value-focused patient and provider. Health care organizations can optimize technology design to meet the needs of both parties. There simply needs to be a balance between what we want and what we need.

NSF Awards $10M To Research Project Targeting mHealth Security

Wed, 23 Dec 2015 14:52:00 Z

The National Science Foundation has awarded a five-year, $10 million grant to a diverse team of researchers to improve the security and user confidentiality of mobile health tools. Researchers have raised concerns about the security of mobile health applications that are not subject to HIPAA privacy and security standards. Clinical Innovation & Technology et al.

'Medical-Grade' Wearable Devices Increasingly Seek FDA Approval

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 19:13:00 Z

Health care and technology companies increasingly are developing "medical-grade" wearable devices for detecting and monitoring serious diseases. Unlike other wearables, such devices require FDA approval, which can be difficult to obtain because the vendors must show that the devices improve patient health. Reuters.

U.K. Health Service, Dating App Partner To Boost Organ Donation

Thu, 17 Dec 2015 17:20:00 Z

The United Kingdom's National Health Service has partnered with the dating application Tinder to encourage more young people to sign up for the NHS organ donor register. The campaign uses profiles of U.K. celebrities to bolster organ donation. BBC News.

2016: Technology Driving the Triple Aim

Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:00:00 Z

The role of IT in health care in 2016 will mesh well with the Triple Aim of improved quality, improved health outcomes and reduced costs. Health care organizations should filter technology decisions based on risk management, cost optimization and value maximization -- all of which can help drive the Triple Aim in 2016.

Text Messages Boost Activity for Patients at Risk for Heart Disease

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 17:21:00 Z

A new study finds that patients at risk for heart disease can significantly boost their physical activity levels with the help of a text messaging intervention program. Participants who received text messages of encouragement or praise took 2,334 more steps each day than those who did not receive such an intervention. Clinical Innovation & Technology.

Survey: Nearly 75% of U.S. Adults Plan To Buy Health, Fitness Devices

Tue, 15 Dec 2015 18:18:00 Z

A Consumer Technology Association survey finds that nearly 75% of U.S. adults plan to purchase health and fitness devices within the next year. The findings also suggest that consumers are comfortable sharing information from such devices with their physicians, but many are concerned about data breaches involving personal health information. MobiHealthNews, CTA survey.

PwC Report Identifies Key Health IT Trends To Watch for in 2016

Mon, 14 Dec 2015 17:35:00 Z

A new report from PricewaterhouseCoopers' Health Research Institute identifies 10 health care issues that will stand out in 2016. Among other things, the report says cybersecurity will be a concern for connected medical devices, new databases will bolster hospitals' use of big data and use of mobile health applications will grow. MobiHealthNews et al.

4.9M Patients Were Remotely Monitored in 2015, Report Finds

Fri, 11 Dec 2015 14:13:00 Z

A report from Swedish market research firm Berg Insights finds the number of patients worldwide being remotely monitored reached 4.9 million in 2015 and estimates the number will reach 36.1 million in 2020. The report finds that for the first time cellular connection became the preferred connectivity method for remote patient monitoring. MobiHealthNews.

Connected Health Device Adoption Up Among Broadband Households

Thu, 10 Dec 2015 17:58:00 Z

A new survey finds that the percentage of U.S. broadband-connected households that have adopted a connected health device increased from about 25% in 2014 to about 33% in 2015. The survey shows most of the health devices being used are designed for fitness. FierceMobileHealthcare, Parks Associates release.

Study Indicates Online Reporting Can Benefit Patients With Cancer

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 18:56:00 Z

A study finds that patients with cancer who reported their symptoms using a tablet or computer had a higher one-year survival rate than patients who did not. An accompanying editorial suggests that "this intervention may be particularly effective in informing the management of vulnerable populations." Reuters, Journal of Clinical Oncology.

New Projects Aims To Set Ethical Guidelines for Mobile Health Studies

Wed, 02 Dec 2015 18:15:00 Z

Researchers at the University of California-San Diego are working to create ethical guidelines for clinical trials that use personal health data collected through mobile devices, sensors and social media. The Connected and Open Research Ethics project aims to provide researchers and review boards with a resource for designing ethically sound studies. mHealthIntelligence et al.

Physician Residents Prefer Texting for In-Hospital Communication

Wed, 02 Dec 2015 17:05:00 Z

A recent study finds that the majority of internal medicine residents prefer texting over other forms of in-hospital communication channels such as email, paging and telephone. However, the majority of physician residents said hospital paging is the most secure in-hospital communication method. FierceMobileHealthcare, Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Reports Project Significant Growth in Digital, Mobile Health Markets

Tue, 01 Dec 2015 17:48:00 Z

A recent report projects that the global digital health market will increase by a compound annual growth rate of more than 21% between 2015 and 2020. A separate report predicts that the global mobile health market will increase by a 33.4% compound annual growth rate during the same time period. Health IT Interoperability, FierceMobileHealthcare.

Mental Health Providers Weigh Pros, Cons of Texting With Patients

Tue, 01 Dec 2015 17:45:00 Z

Mental health practitioners appear split on the use of texting to communicate with patients. While some say the technology should be incorporated into comprehensive care, others express concerns about efficacy, ethics and privacy. STAT News.

As Health Apps Grow in Popularity, Some Experts Raise Concerns

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 18:58:00 Z

The use of mobile health applications is projected to increase over the next few years, but industry experts say more research and federal oversight is needed to ensure the products are effective. The Federal Trade Commission has taken action against several app developers over their products' medical claims. Modern Healthcare.

mHealth App Can Facilitate EHR, Third-Party Data Interoperability

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 17:22:00 Z

A recently released research paper finds that mobile applications can successfully facilitate interoperability between electronic health records and third-party data. For the paper, researchers developed a mobile application that collects disparate data streams in a single location and integrated them into EHRs. FierceMobileHealthcare.

New HHS Portal Aims To Help mHealth Developers Learn About HIPAA

Fri, 20 Nov 2015 18:35:00 Z

A new Web portal from HHS' Office for Civil Rights seeks to increase HIPAA familiarity among developers of mobile health tools and other health IT products. Developers can use the portal to learn about HIPAA and submit questions and comments, which OCR will use to help develop guidance and technical assistance. Health Data Management.

Walgreen Expands Telehealth Service to 25 States, Launches New App

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 18:53:00 Z

Walgreen and telemedicine company MDLive have expanded their virtual doctor service to 20 additional states. Meanwhile, Walgreen and Qualcomm Life unveiled a new health tracking application that links health tracking devices to a consumer rewards program. MobiHealthNews, Walgreen release.

Hospital-Designed Apps Aim To Help Patients Manage Their Care

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 16:35:00 Z

Hospitals are developing mobile health applications that can be used to help patients manage their medications, side effects and follow-up care. Researchers say that patients are more likely to incorporate hospital-developed apps into their daily routine than apps that they download independently. Wall Street Journal.

Standards Groups Release Guide on Workplace Mobile Device Security

Mon, 09 Nov 2015 18:22:00 Z

The National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence have released a guide with strategies for keeping personal information secure on workers' mobile devices. Among other things, the guide includes steps for implementing a "standards-based" approach to mobile security. FierceMobileHealthcare

Study: Weight-Loss Mobile Apps No More Effective Than Fliers

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 18:20:00 Z

A new study published in the journal Obesity finds that mobile health applications were no more effective than informational handouts provided during a physician visit in promoting sustained weight loss. Unlike other weight-loss research, the study was conducted over two years and focused on individuals between ages 18 and 35. MobiHealthNews, Obesity.

Report Makes Predictions on Effects of Health Care Trends on IT

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 17:42:00 Z

A new International Data Corporation report makes 10 predictions about health care trends over the next three years. According to the report, "major themes" include security and the effect of data breaches, as well as movement toward personalized medicine. Healthcare IT News, IDC report.

Three Important Tech Skills That Need To Be Added to Medical School Curricula

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 12:30:00 Z

The American Medical Association's new policy calling on medical students to gain hands-on experience with electronic health record systems is a step in the right direction. But medical students also need training in mobile health applications, data analytics software and remote monitoring tools.

Survey: Nearly Half of Downloaders Stop Using Mobile Health Apps

Thu, 05 Nov 2015 16:16:00 Z

A recent survey finds that while 58% of U.S. residents have downloaded at least one mobile health application, 46% have stopped using a health app because of cost, privacy concerns or waning interest. Meanwhile, 41% of respondents said they would never pay for a mobile health app. Medical News Today, CBS News.

Patients Lack Access to Digital Tools To Communicate With Providers

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 18:18:00 Z

A new survey commissioned by the Bipartisan Policy Center and Council of Accountable Physician Practices finds that most patients would like to use technology-enabled services to communicate and share information with their providers, but few patients have access to such tools. Washington Post's "To Your Health."

Legal Battle Persists Between Wearable Device Makers Jawbone, Fitbit

Tue, 03 Nov 2015 18:54:00 Z

On Friday, Jawbone filed a lawsuit countering a patent infringement suit brought against the wearable device maker by Fitbit. Meanwhile, Fitbit has filed a complaint asking the International Trade Commission to stop U.S. imports of Jawbone products, which Fitbit alleges infringe on its patents. TechCruch et al.

Mobile Health Developers Face Challenges to Reaching Baby Boomers

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 17:43:00 Z

A California HealthCare Foundation issue brief highlights challenges mobile health application and device developers face in creating tools for baby boomers. The brief's author advises developers to consider impairment in older individuals' hearing, vision and dexterity when designing mobile health tools. FierceMobileHealthcare et al.

Consumer Adoption of Digital Health Technology Low, Report Says

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 16:33:00 Z

A new Rock Health report finds 48% of U.S. residents have used zero or just one consumer-driven digital health tool. Overall, the report found the average adoption rate across six digital health tools -- genetic services, mobile health tracking, online health information, online reviews, telemedicine and wearable devices -- was about 27%. Healthcare IT News, Rock Health report.

Researchers Launch Health Studies Using Apple's ResearchKit

Fri, 16 Oct 2015 17:48:00 Z

Researchers from Duke University, Johns Hopkins University and Oregon Health and Sciences University have launched new studies using Apple's ResearchKit platform to test applications for dermatology, develop screening tools for behavior-related health issues and measure the health of patients during epileptic seizures. MobiHealthNews, Washington Post's "The Switch."

Plethora of Mobile Health Apps, but Few Have Struck Gold With Consumers

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 11:00:00 Z

Raj Oswal of the mobile application platform company O'Interface, Rosalind Picard of Empatica, a wearables and mobile app company, and Steve Steinhubl of the Scripps Translational Science Institute spoke with iHealthBeat about the current state and future outlook of the mobile health app movement.

Study: Some Mobile Health Apps May Lack Adequate Security Features

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 16:38:00 Z

A study published in the journal BMC Medicine finds that some clinically accredited mobile health applications in the United Kingdom lack sufficient security features. In a separate commentary, Paul Wicks of the health information sharing website PatientsLikeMe called for a "proper balance" between innovation and caution. mHealth Intelligence et al.

New UCSF Platform Will Help Facilitate Mobile Health Studies

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 17:31:00 Z

NIH has awarded $9.75 million to the University of California-San Francisco to develop a platform, called Health ePeople, to help researchers conduct mobile health studies with large groups of volunteers. Researchers will be able to collect mobile health data via integration with applications, devices and sensors. MobiHealthNews, FierceMobileHealthcare.

OCR Launches HIPAA Privacy, Security Portal for App Developers

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 17:38:00 Z

HHS' Office for Civil Rights has launched an online portal for mobile health technology developers to better understand issues related to HIPAA privacy and security rules. The platform allows registered users to submit questions, offer comments on other submissions and vote on the relevancy of topics. FierceHealthIT et al.

Two Health IT Winners Announced for Mayo Innovation Challenge

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 17:28:00 Z

Mayo Clinic and health care accelerator AVIA have named two health IT winners -- Care at Hand and Wellpepper -- in Mayo's inaugural THINK BIG Challenge. The challenge aims to promote health maintenance and prevention and to help individuals with chronic conditions live productive lives. Health IT Analytics, Mayo Clinic release.

Survey: Majority of Apple Watch Users Report Increases in Fitness

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 17:02:00 Z

A new Wristly survey finds that a majority of Apple Watch users report being more aware of their health and are exercising, standing and walking more since receiving the smartwatch. However, more than 25% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the smartwatch's speed, privacy and workout selection, according to the survey. BuzzFeed et al.

Report: Millennials More Likely To Use Tech for Health, Wellbeing

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 16:20:00 Z

A new Deloitte report finds that millennials are more likely to engage with technology to track fitness and wellness goals and to compare provider performance than the adult population as a whole. For example, nearly 50% of millennials say they used technology for fitness and health purposes in 2015, compared with 28% of all adults. Modern Healthcare, Deloitte report.

Mental Health Apps Becoming More Popular, but Efficacy Unclear

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:24:00 Z

Although psychologists have not widely embraced mobile applications, mental health apps are becoming increasingly popular among consumers and therapists. Advocates say such apps can help patients follow therapy plans and provide immediate support. However, fewer than 1% of mental health apps have been reviewed for efficacy. Wall Street Journal.

Survey: Medical Students See Interoperability as Key to Care Delivery

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 18:07:00 Z

A new survey by electronic health record vendor athenahealth finds that 96% of medical students say the ability to share patient records is key to improving patient care. Meanwhile, the majority of respondents say they prefer in-person patient visits to telehealth. EHR Intelligence, MobiHealthNews.

Text Message Tips Can Help Heart Disease Patients Lower Risks

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 18:00:00 Z

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that text messages that remind coronary heart disease patients to engage in healthy behaviors were linked to a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes. Further, 90% of study participants reported that the text message-based intervention was useful. Reuters et al.

Tech Companies Create Monitoring Tools To Keep Seniors at Home

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 17:19:00 Z

As more seniors look to stay in their homes and out of long-term care facilities, technology companies and startups are developing tools that leverage Bluetooth technology and sensors to improve home care. Such tools track seniors' health and daily routines and can transmit the data to family members or health care providers monitoring their care. Reuters.

Settlement Reached Over Mobile App Claiming Vision Improvement

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 17:52:00 Z

The Federal Trade Commission has reached a settlement with Carrot Neurotechnology over the company's claim that its "Ultimeyes" mobile application could improve users' vision. FTC alleged that the company lacked sufficient scientific research to support its claims. Carrot maintained it has adequate research but agreed to the settlement to resolve the issue. Washington Post's "The Switch," FTC release.

Just 36 Mobile Health Apps Account for Nearly Half of All Downloads

Thu, 17 Sep 2015 18:33:00 Z

A new study finds that there are more than 165,000 mobile health and fitness applications available to consumers, but just 36 apps account for nearly 50% of total downloads. The report notes that while apps have become more sophisticated in recent years, factors such as HIPAA compliance and insurer reimbursements limit their adoption. AP/Sacramento Bee et al.

Brookings: Health IT Can Bolster Health Care Performance, Outcomes

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 16:52:00 Z

A new Brookings Institution research paper suggests that health IT could improve health care performance and outcomes. The paper also finds that venture capital activity in the digital health sector has "increased substantially in recent years." FierceHealthIT, Brookings paper.

Report: Wearable Device Market Sees Huge Boost in Q2 2015

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 17:03:00 Z

A report from the International Data Corporation finds 18.1 million wearable device units shipped in the second quarter of 2015, up from 5.6 million units in Q2 2014. The report authors attribute the rise in part to Apple's entry into the market, shipping 3.6 million units in Q2 2015. However, Fitbit still leads the market, shipping 4.4 million units in Q2 2015. MobiHealthNews, IDC release.

Health IT Tools Are Burdensome for Chronically Ill, Older Patients

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 16:51:00 Z

A new study identifies several barriers keeping individuals with multiple chronic conditions from adopting health IT tools to track their data. The researchers say developers should focus on creating tools that "clearly reduce patient inconvenience and burden" and cut the workload associated with tracking health data. FierceMobileHealthcare, Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Public-Private Partnership Looks To Advance Wearables, Health Apps

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 16:20:00 Z

The Pentagon has announced a new multimillion-dollar public-private partnership that aims to develop flexible hybrid electronics, such as wearable devices and health monitoring technologies. The new venture -- called the Manufacturing Innovation Institute for Flexible Hybrid Electronics -- will include more than 160 companies, universities and other organizations. FCW et al.

Report: Consumer Demand for Wearables Down Since January Peak

Fri, 28 Aug 2015 17:54:00 Z

A new report by Argus Insights finds that demand for wearable health technology, particularly fitness-tracking devices, has slowed since early 2015. The wearables market grew significantly in the last 18 months, with interest peaking in January. MobiHealthNews.

Study: Texting Can Help Diabetic Patients Remotely Manage Insulin

Thu, 27 Aug 2015 17:39:00 Z

A recent study conducted at Bellevue Hospital in New York City finds that text messaging can help patients with diabetes better manage their insulin dosages. Researchers say that the Mobile Insulin Titration Intervention program helps insulin-dependent patients save time and money while effectively managing the disease. KQED's "Future of You."

Sports Teams Look To Ward Off Player Injuries Through Data Analysis

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 17:38:00 Z

Professional sports teams are turning to mobile activity trackers to record and analyze players' performance and risk of injury. However, some experts question who would have access to the data and whether such information could be used against players. Washington Post.

Health System, Apps Must Evolve for Mobile Health Adoption To Take Off

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 12:00:00 Z

Mobile health application adoption has been slow in part because of cost, usability and privacy concerns. However, as mobile tools improve and the culture of health care delivery evolves, experts say patients will increasingly turn to mobile apps to understand and manage their care.

Studies Use Mobile Phone Data To Track Spread of Infectious Diseases

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 18:04:00 Z

Researchers in two separate studies have used mobile tools to track the spread of infectious diseases. Researchers tracked rubella in Kenya using cell phone metadata and historical data on outbreaks. Meanwhile, a study in Michigan used Bluetooth technology and self-reported surveys to track influenza. Tech Times et al.

FTC Reaches Settlement With Health App Vendor Over False Claims

Thu, 20 Aug 2015 18:13:00 Z

Under a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission, the developer of mobile melanoma applications is barred from making deceptive claims about the products' health benefits. An FTC review found that the company had "deceptively claimed the apps accurately analyzed melanoma risk and could assess such risk in early stages." Health Data Management.

Study: Blood Tests, Apps Predict Suicide Risk With 90% Accuracy

Thu, 20 Aug 2015 18:08:00 Z

A new study finds the combination of blood tests and mobile applications could predict thoughts of or attempts at suicide with more than 90% accuracy. Researchers say the tests could improve identification of individuals at-risk of suicide without having to ask an individual if they have thoughts about suicide. Washington Post's "To Your Health," Molecular Psychiatry.

Research Needed on Effects of mHealth on Cardiovascular Disease

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 17:52:00 Z

A scientific statement released by the American Heart Association calls for additional research on the effects of mobile health technology on reducing cardiovascular disease risks. The statement finds that most studies about mobile health and heart disease or stroke risk factors have been limited in length and size. Health Data Management et al.

Web-Based Tools Can Facilitate Patient Engagement, Study Finds

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 17:59:00 Z

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association finds that online platforms that provide educational information on a patient's condition and facilitate communication with providers can boost patient engagement. FierceMobileHealthcare, Brigham and Women's Hospital release.

Mobile Rx Drug Inquiry System Could Cut Errors, Boost Adherence

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 17:31:00 Z

A mobile medication inquiry system that notifies patients about a drug's safety could reduce errors, according to a new study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. An accompanying editorial suggests that the tool also could bolster patient engagement. Healthcare IT News, CJASN.

How To Conquer Digital Innovation Inertia in Health Care

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 11:00:00 Z

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in health and medical care, but many health care organizations remain stuck in digital innovation inertia.

Ariz.'s Medicaid Tech Outreach Plan Prompts Accessibility Questions

Thu, 06 Aug 2015 17:37:00 Z

As part of a Medicaid cost-reduction effort, Arizona is launching a technology outreach plan that will use mobile health applications, online portals and text messaging to help beneficiaries manage their care. However, some experts question the use of smartphone-enabled tools to reach the low-income population. Modern Healthcare, MobiHealthNews.

Industry Leaders Push for Self-Regulation in Mobile Health Sector

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 18:05:00 Z

During a House Judiciary Committee hearing yesterday, several leaders in the connected device industry argued for less government intervention and a push toward self-regulation. The experts said that current regulations pose a challenge to gaining patients' trust. MobiHealthNews.

'Uber-Like' Health Apps Aim To Bring Back House Calls

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 16:32:00 Z

Several companies have launched "Uber-like" doctor-on-demand applications that could make house calls popular again. However, the services are not yet covered by insurance, and some physicians have raised concerns about the quality of care patients receive through such apps. AP/Philadelphia Inquirer.

Physicians' Mobile EHR Use To Increase, Report Finds

Thu, 23 Jul 2015 17:28:00 Z

A Black Book Market Research report finds that about 70% of physicians are expected to use mobile devices to access electronic health records by the end of the year. The report also finds that Drchrono is the top-rated mobile EHR application for the third consecutive year. Health Data Management et al.

Older Adults Willing To Use Mobile Health Tools, but Barriers Remain

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 16:58:00 Z

A new AARP study finds that consumers ages 50 and older are willing to use mobile activity trackers. However, such individuals reported several barriers to long-term adoption of the technology, such as issues finding and using instructions, data inaccuracy, device malfunctions and difficulties wearing the devices. FierceMobileHealthcare, AARP release.

Hospitals Grapple With How To Handle Providers' Use of Cellphones

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 16:52:00 Z

Hospitals are "playing catch-up" when it comes to regulating providers' use of mobile phones during surgery and care delivery. Proponents say cellphones can boost providers' communication and access to information, but others warn that mobile phones can lead to distractions and patient safety risks. The Atlantic.

Study: Mobile Application Can Accurately Detect Signs of Depression

Tue, 21 Jul 2015 16:41:00 Z

A new study finds a mobile application that tracks individuals' phone use and geographic location can help detect signs of depression and monitor at-risk populations. The app, developed by Northwestern University researchers, predicted depression with 87% accuracy. Healthcare IT News, United Press International.

Analysis Taps Mobile App Data To Identify Most Active States

Tue, 07 Jul 2015 16:52:00 Z

An analysis of data compiled through fitness and workout tracking mobile applications -- such as MyFitnessPal and MapMyFitness -- finds that California, Colorado and Washington have the most physically active residents. Meanwhile, residents in Delaware, North Dakota and South Carolina are the least active. Reuters.

VA Testing New Provider-, Patient-Facing Mobile Applications

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 17:23:00 Z

The Department of Veterans Affairs this summer plans to test a new provider-facing application to help boost efficiency and increase the number of patients that providers can see. Meanwhile, VA also is in the midst of testing two patient-facing apps designed to increase access to their health records. FCW.

Study: Patient Portal Access Did Not Improve Medical Care Knowledge

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 17:01:00 Z

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association finds that access to a patient portal application detailing hospital medical care did not improve patients' understanding of their care and treatment. However, patients who used the app did show modest improvements in knowledge of their providers' names and roles. FierceMobileHealthcare et al.

Studies: App Could Raise CPR Delivery, Cardiac Arrest Survival Rate

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 17:47:00 Z

Two studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine find that a mobile application that identifies and alerts trained individuals of nearby cardiac arrest emergencies could improve survival and cardiopulmonary resuscitation delivery rates. Washington Post's "To Your Health."

Report Identifies Five Health IT Trends for Health Care Systems

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 17:32:00 Z

A new Accenture report identifies five health IT trends that likely will shape the future of the U.S. health care industry. The trends include a focus on data, personalized medicine, mobile platforms, interoperability and digital tools. Healthcare IT News, MobiHealthNews.

Survey: Few Providers Discuss Wearables, Mobile Apps With Patients

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 16:48:00 Z

A new market survey by MedPanel finds that just 15% of providers are discussing mobile health applications or wearable devices with their patients. Researchers say vendors can boost mobile health use by making products that are more appealing to providers. Health IT Analytics, Health Data Management .

Global Wearable Device Market To See Significant Growth in 2015

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 16:50:00 Z

An International Data Corporation report estimates that the global wearable device market will grow by 173.3%, from 26.4 million wearable shipments in 2014 to about 72.1 million shipments in 2015. Market experts attribute the growth in the wearable market to vendors such as Fitbit and Xiaomi offering inexpensive products. FierceMobileHealthcare, IDC release.

A Digital Divide Between Homo Informaticus and the U.S. Health Care System

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 11:00:00 Z

Consumers increasingly are turning to retail health services in part because they offer better access, convenience, control, choice and cost. But this growing trend could result in continued fragmentation of a consumer's health and wellness data, separating it from the patient's clinical data in electronic health records and insurance claims systems.

Providers See Benefits, Drawbacks to Mobile Health Technologies

Wed, 17 Jun 2015 17:00:00 Z

A review of reports and studies related to mobile health finds that providers see the benefits of such technology. However, the researchers also cite several barriers to mobile health adoption, such as costs, disrupted workflows, and privacy and security concerns. FierceMobileHealthcare, Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association.

Study: Mobile Systems Could Improve Access to Immunization Data

Tue, 16 Jun 2015 17:54:00 Z

An article published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association suggests that health care providers and patients could better access immunization data if they were available through mobile phone-based information systems. FierceMobileHealthcare, JAMIA.

3 Reasons the Use of mHealth Is Limited

Tue, 16 Jun 2015 11:00:00 Z

Mobile health technology has the potential to radically change the way patients and providers approach preventive care, medication adherence and engagement in health care. But three factors are holding health care organizations back from developing and adopting mhealth tools: They're expensive, they're risky and they raise privacy concerns.

Most mHealth App Users, Providers Say Apps Improve Quality of Life

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 17:48:00 Z

A new survey shows 96% of mobile health application users and medical professionals believe mobile health apps "improve their quality of life." Meanwhile, 86% of providers surveyed said mobile health apps will improve their knowledge of patients' medical conditions. mHealth Intelligence, Research Now survey.

AMA Adopts Policies To Increase Transparency of Health Data, Prices

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 18:12:00 Z

The American Medical Association has adopted several additional health IT-related policies, including two that aim to bolster transparency of health care data and prices. In addition, AMA adopted a policy that would create and distribute best practice guidelines for mobile health applications. Becker's Hospital Review et al.

Survey Finds Majority of Nurses Using Smartphones, Apps at Work

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 17:43:00 Z

A new survey finds that 95% of nurses own a smartphone, of which 88% use smartphone applications in daily nursing work. Nurses report using such devices to look up health-related information, communicate with their colleagues and access patient care information. FierceMobileHealthcare et al.

Few Consumers Interested in Payer-Based Mobile Wellness Programs

Tue, 09 Jun 2015 18:00:00 Z

A new survey finds that while 89% of privately insured consumers use a smartphone and/or a tablet, just 30% say they are interested in participating in a wellness program offered by their health plan that would require them to use mobile tools to track and monitor their health. MobiHealthNews.

Employers Increasingly Turn to Health IT To Improve Workers' Health

Tue, 09 Jun 2015 16:44:00 Z

Businesses are increasingly relying on digital health services to improve their employees' wellness and prevent costly health problems, such as diabetes. Meanwhile, a group of stakeholders is developing an "artificial pancreas" that it hopes to bring to the market by 2018. Bloomberg Business, Wall Street Journal.

Google Testing Mobile App To Gather Individual Health Information

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 17:51:00 Z

Google is testing a new mobile application, called the Study Kit app, as part of its Google Baseline study, which aims to gather baseline information on health individuals through digital health sensors and genetic testing. The app will allow individuals to upload and view data on their Study Kit devices. MobiHealthNews.

Report: U.S. To Dominate Mobile Health Market Through 2020

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 17:27:00 Z

A report by Allied Market Research projects that the global mobile health market will grow at a 33.5% compound annual growth rate between 2015 and 2020. During that time, the Asia-Pacific region is likely to see the fastest growth, but the U.S. will continue to dominate the market. Health Data Management, Clinical Innovation & Technology.

FCC Versus Your Health

Mon, 01 Jun 2015 11:00:00 Z

By subsidizing the cost of mobile subscriptions, health care providers could leverage mobile health applications to improve chronic disease management, boost patient outcomes and cut costs. However, the Federal Communications Commission's new net neutrality rules could hinder one of the most promising areas of innovation in U.S. health care.

Contest Seeks Wearables To Improve Health in Developing Countries

Fri, 29 May 2015 18:03:00 Z

The "Wearables for Good" challenge -- launched by UNICEF in partnership with smartphone chip manufacturer ARM and design firm Frog -- seeks wearable devices that can be used to help individuals in underdeveloped countries avoid death, disease and disasters. MedCity News et al.

Text Reminder Program Enrollees More Likely To Have Physical Exams

Tue, 26 May 2015 17:37:00 Z

A recent analysis finds that individuals enrolled in a mobile text message program that reminded participants to schedule medical visits were three times more likely to have a physical exam within 90 days of receiving the reminder. Further, 71% of participants said the program helped them to remember medical appointments. MobiHealthNews.

Privacy, Security Protections Needed for Health Care BYOD Policies

Wed, 20 May 2015 17:14:00 Z

Some stakeholders say that more privacy and security protections are needed before the medical industry joins in the growing Bring Your Own Device, or BYOD, movement, which allows workers to use their personal mobile tools at work. mHealth Intelligence.

Mobile Health Use Among Rural, Urban Health Clinics Low in 2013

Fri, 15 May 2015 16:54:00 Z

A Commonwealth Fund survey finds low mobile health adoption among rural and urban community clinics and centers in 2013. Facilities cited several barriers to adopting mobile technology, including a lack of funding and human and technical resources. MobiHealthNews, Commonwealth Fund survey.

Fitbit Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Inaccuracies, Misleading Advertising

Thu, 14 May 2015 16:44:00 Z

A California resident has filed a class-action lawsuit against Fitbit, alleging that its wearable devices do not accurately track sleep and that the company is engaging in false advertising. Fitbit says it "strongly disagrees" with the lawsuit, adding that its trackers "are not intended to be scientific or medical devices." MobiHealthNews.

Global Wearables Market Could Hit $16B by 2016, Report Finds

Wed, 13 May 2015 17:30:00 Z

A recent visiongain report predicts that the global wearables technology market will reach $16.1 billion by the end of 2015, as a result of mass market acceptance of mobile health and fitness wearables spurred in part by the introduction of the Apple's smartwatch. FierceMobileHealthcare, visiongain release.

Medical Industry Debates Whether Patients Should Record Doc Visits

Tue, 12 May 2015 16:26:00 Z

The medical community has been increasingly debating whether patients should be permitted to record physicians during visits. While some physicians worry the recordings could be used against them in some way, patients tend to have greater trust in physicians that allow recordings. Washington Post.