NHS to launch health 'app store'
The NHS is reportedly set to launch its very own 'app store' in a bid to improve the nation's health. As part of a new Government strategy to encourage Brits to make healthy lifestyle changes,the NHS would approve certain applications, which could then be branded with the NHS logo.
According to the Daily Telegraph, GPs could even 'prescribe' certain apps, for instance, recommending those that could help overweight patients to track their diet and exercise and achieve weight loss goals.
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Other applications may be recommended for health conditions such as diabetes, with technology helping to monitor blood sugar levels.
There are already a number of free apps available via the health service and public health campaigns. The Quit Smoking app gives smokers looking to quit support, tips and counters showing the amount of money saved by not lighting up. Others encourage families to get their 'five a day', or track the units you consume on a night out.
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But the new strategy, Personalised Health and Care 2020, would be the first time GPs could potentially recommend apps as part of their treatment options.
Tim Kelsey, National Director of Patients and Information, told the Telegraph that the best tech would be 'kitemarked', allowing app developers to "take advantage of the trust people have in the NHS brand".
Full details of the strategy, including plans for the NHS 'app store', are due to be announced later this week.
Have you improved your health or fitness using an app? Do you think this new strategy will help to tackle the nation's health problems? Leave your comments below...
