Purpose - The purpose of this research, beside the general comprehension of the phenomenon, its dissemination and penetration in the medical community, is mainly to gain a better understanding of determinants and factors that may impede or enhance its use in the medical context considering the potentials provided by the new technologies. On these assumptions, this study offers an insight on two of the most popular operating systems on the market (Android and Apple) analyzing the specific aspects of the Apps present on the main store of the operating systems as referred above (Play Store and iTunes). Design/methodology/approach - The methodology will use a blended approach articulated in two phases. The first phase of inquiry explores the phenomenon object of study, outlining the potentials to it connected ,with a particular reference to the Italian context. The second phase is oriented to build up a data base with the different medical Apps of the two main operating systems, trying to map the offer of medical Apps which are available at present and finally identify possible reading keys of the phenomenon and its developments from a socio-medical viewpoint. Originality/value - This methodology puts in evidence that the adoption of “mobile health” is regarded as the creation of a new market full of opportunities and potential growth. This paper provides a reflection on how the use of Apps may improve the relationship with the different stakeholders( wholesalers- patients- customers) by giving qualitative answers in real time on the base of provided data, creating a trust community through the sharing of information and offering a support and/or coaching to the different users as well. Practical implications - The knowledge of the use and the spreading of new technological systems, such as Apps for specific and particular demands related to the new emerging informative needs in the medical field, give rise to doubts concerning safety, privacy and reliability of information itself. Therefore, we would like to know the real motivations which drive patients to use the device. The users themselves should not be disregarded in the overall process play an important role by applying the information they have at hand to the product they are interested in and evaluating whether it meets their needs
The new technologies to support the users: The use of health Apps (Medicine Cat.)
Reina R;Ventura M;Cristofaro C;
2014-01-01
Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this research, beside the general comprehension of the phenomenon, its dissemination and penetration in the medical community, is mainly to gain a better understanding of determinants and factors that may impede or enhance its use in the medical context considering the potentials provided by the new technologies. On these assumptions, this study offers an insight on two of the most popular operating systems on the market (Android and Apple) analyzing the specific aspects of the Apps present on the main store of the operating systems as referred above (Play Store and iTunes). Design/methodology/approach - The methodology will use a blended approach articulated in two phases. The first phase of inquiry explores the phenomenon object of study, outlining the potentials to it connected ,with a particular reference to the Italian context. The second phase is oriented to build up a data base with the different medical Apps of the two main operating systems, trying to map the offer of medical Apps which are available at present and finally identify possible reading keys of the phenomenon and its developments from a socio-medical viewpoint. Originality/value - This methodology puts in evidence that the adoption of “mobile health” is regarded as the creation of a new market full of opportunities and potential growth. This paper provides a reflection on how the use of Apps may improve the relationship with the different stakeholders( wholesalers- patients- customers) by giving qualitative answers in real time on the base of provided data, creating a trust community through the sharing of information and offering a support and/or coaching to the different users as well. Practical implications - The knowledge of the use and the spreading of new technological systems, such as Apps for specific and particular demands related to the new emerging informative needs in the medical field, give rise to doubts concerning safety, privacy and reliability of information itself. Therefore, we would like to know the real motivations which drive patients to use the device. The users themselves should not be disregarded in the overall process play an important role by applying the information they have at hand to the product they are interested in and evaluating whether it meets their needsI documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
