MDCalc Apple
Application of Course Knowledge: Answer all questions/criteria with explanations and detail.
Name of the app: Identify the name of the app.
Author: Describe who created, developed, or maintains the app.
Endorsement: Identify whether the app is licensed by the Food and Drug Administration, another government agency, or endorsed by an academic institution or medical professional organization. Discuss the implications (or lack) of endorsement.
Aesthetics: Discuss whether the information is displayed in a way that is easy to navigate. Is it easy to use? Can you use it without instructions? Explain.
Purpose: Describe the intended purpose or use of the app.
Clinical decision-making: Discuss the influence of the app on clinical decision-making.
Safety: Is there potential for client harm? Explain.
Privacy/security: Identify if the app has a privacy statement or setting. Is there a clear privacy policy stating information will be encrypted and not shared with third parties? Does the app share information on social networks? Are users notified in the event of a breach of privacy and health information? Explain.
User: Explain for whom is the app intended (providers, clients, or others).
Credibility: Discuss the credibility of the sources of information and how credibility is verified.
Relevance: Discuss how current the information is in the app. When was the last update? Is the content consistent with evidence-based literature or best practices/standards of care? Explain.
Sample Answer
General Evaluation Criteria for Healthcare Apps
Name of the app: The app’s name should be descriptive and relevant to its purpose.
Author: The developer or organization behind the app should have a reputable background in healthcare or a related field.
Endorsement: Endorsements from government agencies, medical professional organizations, or academic institutions can enhance the app’s credibility. However, the absence of endorsement doesn’t necessarily mean the app is unreliable.
Aesthetics: A user-friendly interface with clear navigation and intuitive design is crucial for a positive user experience.