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18/02/2016

mHealth: the next big opportunity in healthcare services

In the digital era, technologies are the game changer – medical inventions, virtual data centers, healthcare networks and wearable devices comprise a myriad of digital possibilities that are now accessible across Europe. Technologies enhance the possibilities to personalize medical services and to increase the focus on the patient’s needs. The digital disrupts existing healthcare models and also creates new links between patients, tech companies and public sector.

Still, with so many health apps available on the market, one might question the demand for developing such services. “The amount of people using health apps is set to double every two years. “, writes Michał Boni, MEP and eSkills Ambassador, in the February issue of The Parliament magazine. “In 2013, only 16 per cent were using such applications. In 2015, this proportion increased to 32 per cent and is expected to hit 50 per cent by 2017”, and concludes: “This is a clear sign that we must invest in innovation. 83 per cent of people are willing to provide their medical data, if used for research and to improve their health.”

People need to be able to critically select the best device or app according to their needs. “mHealth contributes to everyone’s wellbeing, and is related to today’s new lifestyle needs and demands”, according to MEP Boni. While it is important to give as many people as possible access to such mobile apps, it is also important to nurture the development of new digital habits and understanding of technologies. Being able to make full sense of tech devices and apps is a crucial skills for every 21st century person.

You can read MEP Michał Boni's position paper on mHealth  here.