Calling all apps

The NHS Commissioning Board is looking for contributions for a new online directory of health apps.

A statement from the board says it is looking for good examples of online tools to help people improve their health and wellbeing.

The new app directory will help people find the best online tool for their condition or health need and people or organisations who are designing online tools for specific conditions or health areas are invited to submit them for consideration.

“The directory will be a trusted listing of online health and care tools, all of which will be accessible from mobile devices or PCs,” a statement from the NHS CB said.

“The tools will help people use good information to make choices about their health and care.

People will be able to input their own health details to receive personalised information through the tool and then share this with their clinicians or care staff if they choose to do so.”

The NHS CB said the directory will cover a wide spectrum of health and care and focus on innovative ways of using digital technology to improve health and care.

The sort of online tools that will be included in the directory are those that support care planning for people living with one or more long-term condition, which will enable them to create online care plans, record their experiences and invite their carers to see these online.

Other potential apps could provide information and advice for older people, particularly if this can help reduce isolation and loneliness.

The NHS CB also suggested an app of networks for patients with specific health conditions that allow them to link up with similar patients, share information and their experiences and provide feedback on services.

Developers and organisations who want to get involved can email tools.feedback@nhs.net to arrange to speak to the team in the next two weeks.