GPs in the UK may soon be able to prescribe free smartphone apps to help patients manage health conditions such as diabetes, under a new government initiative. The Department of Health says the move is the "next step" in giving patients more control over their health.
The apps could enable diabetics to monitor their blood sugar levels and allow patients to track their blood pressure. Details of the scheme will be outlined in the government's Information Strategy, expected this spring. It is likely that GPs will be able to prescribe apps that would normally cost the individual to purchase.
Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: "So many people use apps every day to keep up with their friends, with the news, find out when the next bus will turn up or which train to catch. I want to make using apps to track blood pressure, to find the nearest source of support when you need it and to get practical help in staying healthy the norm."
One app already trialled by GPs, community nurses and hospitals, including Great Ormond Street, is Patients Know Best. This allows patients to access all their records from all their clinicians and control who sees them. Users can have online consultations, receive automated explanations of results, and work with clinicians on a personalised care plan.
Last summer, the Department of Health invited the public to nominate their favourite health apps, receiving nearly 500 entries and over 12,600 votes and comments.
