The Danish health authority has officially recommended 5 health apps for the first time. The aim is structured but low-threshold access to digital health applications, embedded in everyday care without an immediate overhaul of the system.
The basis for this is a clearly defined assessment process with the following criteria:
- Evidence-based effect: the app must be clinically effective, for example through symptom reduction, better adherence or improved laboratory values.
- Usability & accessibility: the assessment covers whether the app is comprehensible, intuitive and inclusive, including for patients who are less comfortable with technology.
- Affordability: all apps recommended so far are free for patients. This ensures that financial hurdles do not become a barrier to care.
- Benefit to society as a whole: it is not only the individual effect that counts. Denmark examines whether the app makes sense for society as a whole, for example by taking pressure off GPs or providing support with chronic conditions.
The recommendations were published, unfortunately only in Danish, via the national health portal: Anbefalede Sundhedsapps – sundhed.dk