You want to make a healthcare app that solves a specific problem within the industry. You’ve done all your research and are ready to learn how to develop a healthcare app.
But, have you considered the special regulations healthcare providers must adhere to?
Keep reading to learn what features are required for a successful healthcare app and why it’s easier to hire professionals instead of doing it yourself.
10 Features a Successful Healthcare App Should Have
If you’re looking to develop a healthcare app, these 10 features are essential.
1. Registration and Login
For security reasons, a healthcare app should have a registration and login feature. Users should be able to make a profile with a username and password. It’s even better if you implement two-factor authentication.
2. Connect to Third Party Apps or Devices
A healthcare app should be able to work with other apps or devices, like an Apple Watch or FitBit, while still following privacy regulations.
3. Access EMRs and EHRs
Users should be able to access their electronic medical records (EMRs) so they can look at their medical and treatment history easily.
Electronic health records (EHRs) are similar to EMRs but differ by focusing on the total health of a patient, going beyond clinical information.
4. Easy-to-Use Interface
Nothing will ruin an app faster than having a complicated interface. You’ll need to create easy-to-navigate maps, have a clean design, and display crucial information prominently.
5. Scheduling
The ability to schedule appointments is a basic requirement for all healthcare apps.
6. Reminders and Notifications
People are busy, and getting appointment reminders and notifications makes their lives easier.
7. Payment Portal
It’s rare nowadays when an app doesn’t offer an online payment option. Users may want to make payments on your app after making an appointment or receiving a billing notification.
8. Messaging
Sometimes an in-person consultation isn’t required, and a problem can be solved with a simple conversation. Users will expect to be able to message either their provider or patients with ease.
9. Video Chat
Depending on what your app is for, the ability to video chat might be necessary for telehealth.
10. Accessibility Features
It’s standard to make sure everyone, even those with disabilities, can use your app.
How HIPAA and HITECH Affect Healthcare App Development
Healthcare apps have specific regulations to follow from HIPAA and HITECH.
HIPAA
You’re probably familiar with HIPAA—the law that protects people’s medical information. This law extends to healthcare apps as well. This means you must ensure third parties can’t access your users’ medical information.
If your app isn’t HIPAA-compliant, it will get shut down, and you could be liable for civil and criminal penalties.
HITECH
The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act is an extra security measure for mobile healthcare apps. To comply with HITECH, apps must address privacy and security concerns around the electronic submission of health information.
Why You Should Partner with Excel SoftSources to Make Your Healthcare App
Creating and maintaining an app is already difficult and time-consuming, but building a health app is even more so. You should look into partnering with an app development company like Excel SoftSources. Not only are we familiar with HIPAA and HITECH regulations, but we’ll be able to scale your app as your customer base grows.
Best of all, you can dedicate your time and energy to other important aspects of your business while your app is being developed.
Contact us today to learn more about our healthcare app development services.
