WASHINGTON — If you have a smartphone, chances are there is a health app on it.
A new report from the IMS Institute for Healthcare Informatics — which tracks industry trends — shows there has been an explosion in the creation of health apps in recent years.
It says there are now more than 165,000 health apps — more than twice the number available for download in 2013.
IMS says the growth has been so fast that there is no way yet to scientifically validate just how effective these apps are.
It says for now, the best advice is to stick with those that provide basic information. and steer clear of apps that involve an e-chat with a health professional.
All the same, IMS says the potential of app technology to transform health care is enormous, noting a lot of research is underway on their effectiveness and they have the potential to make a huge difference in the treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes.
The vast majority of health apps today deal with basic fitness and wellness. One in 10 is connected to a sensor or wearable tracker.
