As we all know by now that Apple’s HealthKit is new software designed to gather data from multiple health sources. This data is then sent to Apple users via its pre-installed Health app. Not only this, HealthKit will also send data straight to doctors.
The goal of HealthKit is rather simple. To initiate communication between healthcare devices and add discipline to not-so-precise medical data of users.
The brain behind HealthKit told FDA that they feel morally obliged to bring more order into the healthcare delivery system.
So, what’s new with HealthKit?
HealthKit-enabled apps have finally hit the market. The bug delaying the process has been worked upon. That’s definitely good news.
The HealthKit-compatible apps available now are:
- FitPort – the first app to be made available
- WebMD
- Yummly
- Carrot Fit
- MyFitnessPal
- Zova
- UP
- Patient IO
- MotionX 24/7
- Lark
- FitNet
- AmWell
All of these require iOS 8.0.2. This brings the HealthKit platform to life, after a long time, of sitting idle.
If reports are to be believed, Apple has started working with healthcare providers such as Mt. Sinai Hospital, Johns Hopkins University, The Cleveland Clinic, and electronics health records provider AllScripts. It may partner with Mayo Clinic, in a big way, too.
Besides, Apple is keen to partner with institutions or medical professionals, who are loyal iPad users. The only problem, then being, the iPad can be subject to government regulations to protect user data, if it becomes a more comprehensive medical tool.
Apple may need to go for HIPAA compliance. For example, this is in case, where HealthKit Stores offer real-time medical data to other apps.
What HealthKit Means for Apple?
With HealthKit, Apple seems to be eyeing a multi-trillion dollar profit. Given that Apple is investing so much into it in terms of manpower and resources, it is no doubt it may bring out some interesting changes into the health-care industry.
It won’t be wrong to say that there’s a lot at stake for Apple.
Though, Apple app developers have shown remarkable patience in the delay of HealthKit apps. Following the approach to go with the flow and embrace the launch-delay. In general, to stay patient and positive.
Apple is in serious and elaborate talks with FDA to review its obligations via HealthKit. The sole purpose of HealthKit is to streamline healthcare industry and reduce involvement of other regulatory bodies, such as the FDA.
HealthKit – Fad or Promise?
Craig Federighi, Senior Vice President, Apple, said at the Worldwide Developer’s Conference.
App developers have created a vast array of health-care devices and accompanying applications. Now you can monitor everything from activity level, to heart rate, to weight, including chronic medical conditions such diabetes and high blood pressure. With HealthKit, you can now get a single comprehensive picture of your health situation.
With more and more apps showing up in the HeakthKit, it is soon to be the hot cake of Apple. But, how and when these apps actually start to register an impact will be interesting to observe.
