Purpose. To develop a novel, at-a-glance label for the characterization of apps for hearing healthcare (HHC) that might complement the descriptions provided by the app stores. Methods. We developed a label that includes 29 features, grouped in five domains (i.e.: Promoters, Services, Implementation, Users, and Descriptive Information). These features review the most relevant attributes of any app in the field of HHC. We assessed, by using the proposed method, a large set of apps from the two main stores (iOS and Android). Results. We found a variety of offered services, target users, and functionalities in the HHC scenario. Services ranged across the whole HHC path including, for example: hearing screening and testing, education and training, patient engagement, tinnitus relief, hearing aid services, consultation tools, speech and language rehabilitation, training programs, personal sound amplification, assistive tools, and so on. Conclusion. The use of our label provided important insights into the current state of medical apps for HHC. These apps might bring along considerable advantages and improved outcomes. Nevertheless, this field is still an emerging one and important challenges exist. Research should focus on improving safety, quality, and effectiveness for informed and aware adoption of apps by patients and professionals.
Development of a Novel, At-a-Glance Information Label for Medical Apps in the Hearing Health Care Domain
Paglialonga A;Chiaramello E;Tognola G
2016
Abstract
Purpose. To develop a novel, at-a-glance label for the characterization of apps for hearing healthcare (HHC) that might complement the descriptions provided by the app stores. Methods. We developed a label that includes 29 features, grouped in five domains (i.e.: Promoters, Services, Implementation, Users, and Descriptive Information). These features review the most relevant attributes of any app in the field of HHC. We assessed, by using the proposed method, a large set of apps from the two main stores (iOS and Android). Results. We found a variety of offered services, target users, and functionalities in the HHC scenario. Services ranged across the whole HHC path including, for example: hearing screening and testing, education and training, patient engagement, tinnitus relief, hearing aid services, consultation tools, speech and language rehabilitation, training programs, personal sound amplification, assistive tools, and so on. Conclusion. The use of our label provided important insights into the current state of medical apps for HHC. These apps might bring along considerable advantages and improved outcomes. Nevertheless, this field is still an emerging one and important challenges exist. Research should focus on improving safety, quality, and effectiveness for informed and aware adoption of apps by patients and professionals.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
