Healthcare apps have been valuable tools in our everyday lives. They are bridging the gap between our growing awareness and professional healthcare services.
mHealth apps are being used more frequently now. The healthcare app market is expected to reach $150 billion by 2028, growing about 14% yearly. It is witnessing a demand for apps that can give users more control over their health delivery and lifestyle.
If you're sensing an opportunity for your app idea in this ever-growing market, now's your chance to build and launch it. However, you’ll need all the help you can get because choosing the right healthcare app development company can be a hassle – unless you know what to look for.
Types of Healthcare Apps In The Market Today
Healthcare apps are divided into several categories based on the requirements they target. These are the major ones:
Apps for Fitness and Dietary Control
These apps are aimed at promoting a healthier lifestyle by working on different aspects of the mind and body. Regularly using these apps encourages users to stay active and maintain a balanced diet.
Some common features in a fitness app include customized workout routines and step counters. Nutrition apps usually come with meal planners, calorie counters, and water trackers. Here are a few popular examples of fitness and nutrition apps:
Nike Training Club
The Nike Training Club app offers a wide range of guided workouts led by professional trainers. It caters to users of all fitness levels and provides personalized training plans to help them reach their fitness targets.
MyFitnessPal
This very popular app allows users to track their daily food intake and physical activity in just a few taps. Its convenient design, vast food database, and user-friendly interface have made it a favorite among health-conscious users. The app has proven extremely useful in helping individuals set and achieve their fitness goals.
Telemedicine Apps
These apps facilitate remote medical consultations, enabling patients to connect with healthcare professionals through video calls or chat. They have gained prominence, especially during the pandemic, as they offer a convenient and safe way to seek medical advice without visiting a clinic physically. Noteworthy telemedicine apps include:
Doctor On Demand
It allows consultations with licensed physicians, therapists, and psychiatrists from anywhere. It covers a broad spectrum of medical conditions and provides a reliable platform for virtual appointments.
Amwell
Amwell is also a leading telemedicine app that connects patients with board-certified healthcare providers. The app supports both on-demand and scheduled visits, making healthcare accessible 24/7.
Medication Management Apps
Medication management apps aim to improve adherence to prescribed medications and help users keep track of their medication schedules. These apps may send reminders for pill intake and provide valuable information about the drugs. Examples of medication management apps include:
Medisafe
It is a comprehensive app that reminds users to take their medications on time. It also offers features like drug interaction warnings and medication progress reports.
PillPack
PillPack streamlines medication management by organizing prescriptions into convenient packets. It is designed to make it easier for users to follow their prescribed regimens accurately.
Major Features of Healthcare MVP
You must include certain crucial features to ensure the success and user satisfaction of your healthcare MVP. These contribute to a seamless user experience and build trust among the users. Here are some major features to include in a healthcare MVP:
User authentication and data security - A robust user authentication system and data encryption are imperative to protect users' sensitive health information.
Personalization and customization - Offering personalized content and recommendations based on users' preferences and health goals can significantly improve user engagement and satisfaction.
Integration with wearable devices - Integrating the app with wearable health devices allows users to seamlessly sync data, such as activity levels and vital signs. This integration enhances the app's capabilities and provides users with more comprehensive health insights.
In-app communication and support - Including in-app communication features, such as chat or messaging, enables users to connect with healthcare professionals or customer support whenever needed.
What to Consider When Hiring A Healthcare App Development Company
Hiring an app development company is a big step. You're entrusting your idea to professional developers - an investment on multiple levels. So, you have to be certain about the people you choose. You can do this by considering the following:
Industry Experience
The first step in finding the right healthcare app development company is researching its reputation and experience. Look for companies with a proven track record of delivering successful healthcare apps.
Check their portfolio and client testimonials to gauge their credibility and expertise in the industry. A company with extensive experience is more likely to understand the intricate details of healthcare app development and provide you with a reliable solution.
Expertise in Healthcare Compliance and Security
Healthcare apps handle sensitive patient data, making compliance and security crucial aspects of the development process. When selecting a healthcare app development company, ensure they deeply understand healthcare regulations such as HIPAA and GDPR. A company that prioritizes data security and compliance will help protect patient information and maintain the trust of users.
Integration with Existing Systems
The healthcare app must integrate with your existing systems, such as electronic health records (EHR) and practice management software. This enables seamless workflow management. The chosen development company should have experience in integrating various systems to ensure smooth data flow and efficient operations.
Ongoing Support and Maintenance
The journey doesn't end there once the healthcare app is developed and launched. Ensure that the company provides ongoing support and maintenance services. Regular updates and bug fixes are essential to keep the app functioning optimally and secure against potential threats.
Cost and Project Timelines
While cost should not be the sole determining factor, it is undoubtedly a crucial aspect of any project. Obtain detailed quotes from different healthcare app development companies, and compare them based on their features, services, and support. Additionally, discuss project timelines to set realistic expectations for delivery.
Collaboration and Communication
Effective communication and collaboration are fundamental to the success of any project. Choose a responsive development company that maintains transparent communication throughout the development process. Regular updates and progress reports will keep you informed and involved in the project.
Reviews and Testimonials
This is an extremely effective way to gauge a healthcare app development company's performance. You can check reviews and testimonials from their previous clients by seeking out independent reviews on platforms like Clutch or Trustpilot. These are also valuable sources for more information about their strengths and weaknesses.
Final Thoughts
The hiring process will be simpler now that you know what to look for in the ideal healthcare app development company. Make sure to ask previous clients about their experience collaborating with the company you’ve singled out.
You can always return to this post to ensure you’ve checked all the boxes in your search. A reliable healthcare app development guide is available online for more details on must-have healthcare app features.
Author bio:
Richard is an expert at all things mobile app development. He enjoys exploring new technologies and gadgets when he’s not busy coding.
