The Pocket Health app is already proving to be a big hit, reaching number 2 in the medical apps iTunes chart when it went live. It was voted one of the most popular apps that will be showcased at a special event in central London on Wednesday, 22nd February, to be attended by Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, which will unveil the most popular entries in the Department of Health's Maps and Apps project. The event follows a call for innovative apps and ideas for improving health through mobile technology. The organisations that developed the selected favourite apps, which were chosen from nearly 500 suggestions put forward, will be demonstrating their apps.
Pocket Health allows anyone with an iPhone, iTouch or iPad to instantly access a wide range of reliable healthcare information while they are on the move. This tool makes it easier for people to make the best decisions about their health and lifestyle, as well as to find the NHS services they need anywhere in England.
Pocket Health lets people get relevant information either by touching the right area on a screen image of the human body, or by using an A-Z list of conditions and body parts. A service locator identifies where the user is and tells them where to find the nearest doctor, pharmacy, optician, walk-in centre, hospital or dentist - complete with contact details and directions. The CSC app is free to download through iTunes at http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/pockethealth/id445559088?mt=8.
Sheri Thureen, president of UK Healthcare at CSC said: "When you are on the move and need medical information quickly, this app does the job well, putting healthcare in the hands of the patient. Pocket Health not only allows you to find information, such as that provided through NHS Choices, but can provide essential locator and navigation services.
"If you are in an unfamiliar area, perhaps because you've changed jobs or are attending a university, it's great to have the security of knowing that you can get instant access to the NHS support, advice and services you need."
Pocket Health encourages better use of services, for example discouraging inappropriate 999 calls and by providing a one-touch NHS Direct number. If there is a genuine crisis, the app automatically dials the emergency services number for whatever country the user is in, 911, for example, if visiting the USA. It also lets users set up an In Case of Emergency (ICE) record to provide clinicians with critical care information such as blood type, existing conditions, allergies and next of kin.
Lee Appleyard, head of digital media and partnerships, NHS Choices, said: "As the UK's biggest healthcare website, NHS Choices is committed to providing users with the ability to connect to a wealth of information wherever they are. This service is vital for us to continue delivering on our promise of providing patients with the ability to make informed choices. Pocket Health delivers content from NHS Choices in an innovative, intuitive and easy-to-use format. Mobile technology is very important for the delivery of modern healthcare. This app is a great example of patient empowerment, helping put them in control of their own healthcare."
Related news articles:
- CSC's Profile
About CSC
CSC is a global leader in providing technology-enabled business solutions and services. Headquartered in Falls Church, Va., CSC has approximately 98,000 employees and reported revenue of $16.0 billion for the 12 months ended December 30, 2011.