Mobile apps are the future of digital services in the healthcare industry, an effective tool for engaging and educating patients about their patient journey. This is because patients constantly seek simple and user-friendly tools from their health providers.
Widespread integration of mobile apps in healthcare could potentially increase patients’ access to their health information and facilitate future goals of advancing patient-centred care. It also has the potential to contribute valuable real-world data that are not captured by other sources and could provide more cost-effective and generalisable data compared to randomised controlled trials.
Despite having increased access to their health data, patients do not always understand this information or its implications, and digital health data can be difficult to navigate when displayed in a less user-friendly design or interface.
However, having observed multiple surveys by McKinsey and other research, we have compiled the below features that determine the intention of the patient to trust a mobile app and what makes them continue using the service, disclose information, and follow medical advice:
- User-friendly interface: A user-friendly interface is essential in creating trust with patients. Your app should be easy to navigate and have clear instructions.
- Security: This is a major concern for patients when it comes to healthcare apps. Patients trust apps that have strong security features, such as encryption, authentication, and data backup.
- Privacy: Patients want to feel secure knowing their information is kept confidential. Your app should have a clear privacy policy that outlines what information is collected, how it's used, and who has access to it.
- Reputation: A strong reputation in the healthcare industry is important for gaining patients' trust. Patients are more likely to trust apps backed by reputable organisations or have positive reviews and ratings.
- Personalisation: Personalisation is a key feature that can help build trust with patients. Your app should offer personalised recommendations, treatment plans, or resources based on the patient's individual needs and preferences.
- Support: Patients want to feel supported throughout their healthcare journey. Your app should offer reliable support, such as 24/7 customer service, online chat, or a dedicated support team.
- Accessibility: Patients trust apps that are accessible and available to them whenever needed. Your app should be compatible with different devices, operating systems, and internet speeds to ensure it is accessible to all patients.
- Data accuracy: Providing accurate and up-to-date information is essential to building patient trust. Your app should be regularly updated with the latest medical research, treatment options, and other relevant information.
- Transparency: Patients trust apps that are transparent about their practices and policies. Your app should be upfront about how it operates, makes money, and uses patient data.
- Patient empowerment: Patients want to feel empowered and in control of their healthcare decisions. Your app should offer resources and tools that enable patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment options.
- Professionalism: Patients want an app that is professional and trustworthy. You should have a professional design, use appropriate language, and provide references or citations for medical information.
- Feedback and reviews: Patients want an app that has positive reviews and feedback from other users. Encourage patients to leave reviews and feedback and respond to any concerns or criticisms promptly and professionally.
By incorporating these features, healthcare apps can build trust with patients and become valuable tools for managing their health.
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