There is a distinctive difference between regulated digital pharmaceuticals and the wellness sector in the world of healthcare apps. National regulatory organisations like the FDA, who decide whether to sanction apps as medical devices and intervene with wellness apps that may be harmful or deceptive, are to blame for this separation.

For the majority of developers, it is not worthwhile to submit an app as a medical device because they will need to be able to prove the medical advantages it provides, which comes with extra admin and expenses.

“regulatory organisations need to create a framework that guarantees a range of apps covering a variety of diseases will be given the all- clear“

It is much easier for business’ that already have medical device items on the market because they have a track record with regulators and clinical experience which make the clearance process easier. This makes inexperienced companies inclined to submit their therapeutics app as a wellness app instead to avoid the hassle, hence causing a surplus of applications in the wellness sector and diluting the market.

Apps are effective tools that support patients in applying routines and carrying out treatment regimens. The chance of having any problems with an app is relatively small, however approval still requires proven positive outcomes from clinical trials. This often puts great developers at a loss because they don’t have the capacity to conduct such studies.

Customers tend to favour apps over a physical device; therefore, this industry is predicted to grow quickly going forward. It has been suggested that regulatory organisations need to create a framework that guarantees a range of apps covering a variety of diseases will be given the all- clear.

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