Get Better Health Apps
MD Anderson News Release July 12, 2011
MD Anderson Experts Offer Tips for Selecting Health Apps
MD Anderson News Release 07/12/11
Finding an effective health app can be a challenge because most are not reviewed by medical experts. But, consumers can identify better apps by following advice from health technology experts at Â鶹ӳ» MD Anderson Cancer Center.
¡°Quality apps are hard to find because many companies are in such a hurry to sell their apps,¡± says Alexander V. Prokhorov, M.D., Ph.D., director of MD Anderson¡¯s e-Health Technology Program and professor in the Department of Behavioral Science. ¡°And, they don¡¯t take the time to conduct a study to see if users adopt real, lasting change.¡±
?Prokhorov suggests using these tips when choosing health apps.
Set realistic expectations.
¡°Think of health apps as tools that complement what you¡¯re doing offline,¡± says Jermaine McMillan, project director of MD Anderson¡¯s e-Health Technology Program.
Before downloading, consumers should figure out what they need to do to achieve their health goals. Then, figure out how an app can and cannot help.
¡°Set a specific and achievable goal,¡± McMillan says. ¡°Once you choose an app, make sure you understand what it¡¯s intended to do and how you will use it to help reach your goal.¡±
Avoid apps that promise too much.
Beware of apps promising big results ¡ª and fast.
Research shows that most people can¡¯t change a behavior overnight or even in a week. So, an app that promises quick weight loss or quitting smoking for good by the end of the month probably won¡¯t produce the desired results.
Research the developers.
¡°Many questionable health apps are developed by good designers who aren¡¯t experts in behavior change,¡± Prokhorov says.
He suggests looking in the app store or on the app¡¯s website to see who developed the app. Then, research the developers to find out:
- Whether they¡¯ve designed other health apps
- How long they¡¯ve been developing health apps
- Whether they consulted health professionals
- Whether any reputable hospitals or health organizations endorse the app
¡°If the answer to these questions is no, that¡¯s a red flag,¡± McMillan says.
Opt for familiar techniques.
Beware if an app uses unusual strategies to improve users¡¯ health, such as hypnosis to quit smoking.
¡°Most effective behavior change strategies are based on years of research,¡± Prokhorov says. ¡°They¡¯re things you¡¯ve probably heard your doctor recommend.¡±
Play it safe by choosing apps that use well-known strategies.
Test apps before committing.
Even the best app can¡¯t work its magic if it isn¡¯t used as recommended. So, consumers should try several health apps before choosing one, and look for apps that are easy and convenient to use.
Users shouldn¡¯t give up if the first few apps don¡¯t do the trick. Testing different apps is a good way to learn about personal preferences and find an effective app ¡ª or offline solution.
¡°The good news is that more health researchers are starting to help design apps,¡± Prokhorov says. ¡°And, that means many great health apps should appear in the next year or two.¡±?
Get started with this list of mobile and web apps from government agencies and select health organizations. 07-12-11