Regulatory oversight is crucial if mhealth apps are to transform healthcare delivery, according to data and analytics company GlobalData.

Mobile health (mhealth) applications have emerged as powerful tools in transforming healthcare delivery and empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being. These apps, when regulated effectively, not only enhance patient outcomes but also contribute significantly to the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services.

With the increasing adoption of mhealth apps, regulatory frameworks play a crucial role in ensuring their safety, effectiveness and adherence to ethical standards, according to GlobalData.

Regulated mhealth apps, overseen by regulatory bodies such as the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA, undergo rigorous scrutiny to meet stringent quality and safety standards. These standards encompass various aspects, including data privacy, clinical validation, interoperability and user experience, to ensure patients and healthcare providers can rely on these apps with confidence.

“One of the key advantages of regulated mhealth apps is their ability to improve access to healthcare services, especially in underserved or remote areas,” said Alexandra Murdoch, senior medical analyst at GlobalData. “Mhealth apps enable patients to monitor their health, access medical information, consult healthcare professionals remotely, and even receive timely reminders for medication and appointments. This not only reduces the burden on traditional healthcare facilities but also empowers patients to actively participate in their healthcare journey.”

In the realm of chronic disease management, regulated mhealth apps play a pivotal role in facilitating continuous monitoring and support for patients. For instance, apps designed for diabetes management can track blood glucose levels, monitor dietary habits, provide medication reminders and offer insights based on real-time data analysis. Similarly, apps focusing on mental health offer tools for mood tracking, relaxation techniques, therapy sessions and crisis intervention, enhancing the overall mental well-being of users.

The report (www.globaldata.com/store/report/mobile-health-apps-theme-analysis) forecasts the regulated mhealth app market value to reach $15.6bn in 2033. The market has been growing since 2015 but, thanks to Covid-19, mhealth apps were adopted rapidly and started to be used on a regular basis in healthcare.

The use of digital health devices, including mhealth apps, has not slowed with the end of the Covid-19 pandemic. With that in mind, regulatory oversight of mhealth apps is important, as it ensures data security and privacy, addressing concerns related to the collection, storage and sharing of health information.

 “As the demand for digital healthcare continues to rise, the importance of regulatory oversight cannot be overstated,” said Murdoch. “Regulated mhealth apps undergo continuous monitoring, updates and evaluations to ensure ongoing compliance with evolving standards and best practices. Regulated mhealth apps represent a significant milestone in healthcare innovation, offering transformative benefits in terms of accessibility, quality and patient engagement. By embracing regulatory frameworks and leveraging the power of mobile technology, these apps pave the way for a future where healthcare is personalised, proactive and accessible to all.”