Health apps are proliferating—from sleep trackers to virtual dental assistants—yet regulatory oversight remains limited.
With an estimated 95,000 health apps available and their popularity surging, users face challenges in identifying trustworthy options.
Verifying Reliability
Determining if an app is reliable and properly tested can be difficult. 'It's essential to separate reliable apps from unproven ones,' advises Karin Oost, head of Artsennet, a leading authority in healthcare technology.
CE Mark as a Gold Standard
Prioritize apps with a CE mark, which certifies compliance with European standards for medical devices. Currently, few Dutch-developed apps hold this approval, underscoring the need for broader adoption.
Emerging Quality Mark
A new certification is in development for non-medical apps that enhance doctor-patient communication, ensuring their reliability without classifying them as official medical tools.
Do you use health apps?
Source: Zorg & ICT (fair from 27 to 27 March 2014 in Jaarbeurs Utrecht). Image: Shutterstock
