What should I look for in a medication app?
Customisation.
There are several things to consider when looking for a medication app to download. The first is to look for an app that offers flexibility and customisation. Whilst you might be looking to just track one pill right now, things may change in the future. This means looking for a pill app that tracks several medications simultaneously is best. Look for an app where you can add custom symptoms and side effects rather than opting from a restricted list. After all, our bodies all respond differently despite what the tiny leaflet in your medication box says.
Shareability.
Another thing to look for is shareability. You might choose to share the app with your carer or loved one who may be in charge of administering your medication. Or you may want to share information with your doctor so they can alter your dose going forward.
Finally, look for an app that allows you some insight into the medication you’re taking. So after our doctor asks us: ‘is this medication working?’ or ‘have you noticed this particular side effect?’ you’ll be more equipped if you choose an app that allows you insight into your pills. Some apps allow you to track other factors around your medication, such as if a particular symptom improves after taking it. This can be very useful in tracking your pills.
Privacy & Security.
Firstly, let’s talk about privacy. If you’re thinking of using a symptom-tracking app, you want to make sure that your data is as private and secure as possible.
Both the Apple App Store and Android Play Store make it easy to review the measures taken by an app to keep your data private and secure. These measures include an explanation of:
- What data is being collected
- What data is being shared
- Why this data is being collected
- Whether collecting the data is optional
- The security practices of the App
Some important things to look out for are:
- Can your data be deleted?
- How much Personally Identifiable Data (PII) is being collected and for what reason?
- Is your data encrypted?
If you’re unsure about the privacy and security of your health data it could also be helpful to read the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy or you could even contact the developers directly.
Note. If you live in the US and are concerned about details of your reproductive health being shared with law enforcement officials, you can look for apps that are based outside of the US and that fall outside of the jurisdiction of the US legal system.
Credibility.
One of the best ways to determine which medication app is right for you is to read other people’s testimonials. Specifically looking for reviews written by people with your health condition(s) can help you figure out if it’s right for you.
You can also look for information about whether the pill tracker has been clinically reviewed or tested in an empirical study.
Insights & Reports.
One of the unique benefits of digital medication tracking, many of the options can help you to identify…
- Medication and symptom trends so you can understand how medication may cause any side effects.
- Correlations between your medication and improvement in symptoms to help you figure out if a medication is working or not.
- How a specific medication may be impacting your overall mood score.
- How a change of medication may change your symptoms, along with other insights like your overall mood, sleep and energy.
If you’re seeking a symptom tracker to help you with managing your symptoms or if you’re in the process of obtaining a diagnosis, these types of insights can be especially helpful.
Ultimately, if you’re looking to have more control over your symptoms or a clearer understanding of why and when they occur, symptom trackers with reporting features may be the right option for you.