Question

Based on a smoking cessation program that utilizes a mobile application that allows healthcare providers and members (patients) to communicate, share health information:

1) What are the regulatory and technical risks of using a mobile application?

2) Identify specific strategies as to how you would modify your program or implement technologies that would reduce or eliminate these risks.

Answer 1

Regulatory and Technical risks in using medical mobile apps:

1. The informations provided should be accurate and reliable since most of the patients may take critical decisions based on it.

Many fake medical apps look reliable but compromise Patient Safety. Many app developers don't have even formal medical training and not even involve positions in providing informations.

2. Exponential growth of medical apps make it impossible to access each and every app, threatening Patient Safety.

3. The app usage factor (AUF) may link aap risks to a number of users and frequency of use.

4. There are also risk factors exposed by the display, user interface, network issues and subsequent loss of information.

Strategies to overcome the risks:

1. List out the variables that contribute patient life threat. Break them down to risk factors.

2. Contextual errors may be avoided by a formal education programme.

3. Be very careful that each and every information provided accurate and as per the guidance of trained personal in specific field (here the cigarette smoking and the steps to quit).

4. Proper estimation of security.

5. Developing a regulatory body to assess and update informations necessary for patient care and safety.

6. Categorise the risk and prioritise the interventions accordingly.