Author: Ami Kothari

Ami Kothari Author at EMed HealthTech. Writing and publishing content about healthcare IT, digital healthcare and more about trends, news, and updates
Medicine-Delivery-App-Development

Medicine Delivery App: Key Features, Cost and More

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

The pharmacy business is a lucrative one with a high-profit margin. Hence the competition in the field is also incredibly high. You would know how tough it is to keep business moving as a competitor. Staying ahead of the competition is a matter of survival. Technology is a key player in taking the business to a new level.

With online platforms to buy and sell medicines being the norm of the post-COVID world, pharmacies adopt various business development strategies to get an advantage against competitors. According to leading studies, modern customers are inclined to choose the online marketplace over the physical ones.

This article looks at what goes into the medicine delivery app development process. This will help you get started on your journey of building your app.

What is a Medicine Delivery App?

Medicine delivery apps are the online mode by which customers can buy medicine and have it delivered to their doorstep. They can choose medicines at competitive prices without stepping out of their homes.

Medicine delivery apps typically sell healthcare, OTC, and medical equipment online. Some apps also offer you the facility to book diagnostic test services online, like blood tests, full body checkups, lab tests, and preventative health checkups. Find the detailed guide on how to sell medicines using the medicine delivery app.

Medicine delivery apps have proven to be highly beneficial for pharmacies. It is beneficial for both the users and the pharmacists. Customers choose online platforms to avoid going to a physical store or if they are rendered unable due to medical conditions. Online delivery apps also provide offers and discounts which they can avail of. For pharmacists, this means they can increase sales. With better brand coverage, they can ensure that sales go up. They also have a greater reach among customers than a brick-and-mortar store would give.

 

What’s in a Medicine Delivery App?

There are typically four interfaces for a medicine delivery app. They are the Customer app, the pharmacy app, the Admin app, and the Driver app. Each of them has different functionalities. Let us look at the user-wise key features of a medicine delivery app.

Features of Customer App

  1. An easy-to-use UI – user interface
  2. Registration and login with phone number and password
  3. User profile to add useful information like address, contact details, etc
  4. Medicine-wise search & also identify the substitute medicines
  5. Upload Medicine orders in the form of pharmacist-approved images
  6. View past orders and reorder the required medicines
  7. Wallet system to make quicker payments and process faster returns
  8. Secured payments with third-party payment providers
  9. Order tracking to locate order status
  10. Interact with the pharmacist in in-app chat in real-time

Features of Pharmacy Dashboard

  1. Generate reports in just a few clicks
  2. Check the orders assigned to him

Features of Admin Dashboard

  1. Manage users and pharmacies
  2. View, manage and track orders
  3. Returns and refund management
  4. Provide category-wise discounts to customers
  5. Provide promo code and Refer & Earn facility
  6. SEO management & EMail marketing
  7. The track received orders and pending deliveries
  8. Inventory management with real-time info on stocks
  9. Different dashboards for different roles across departments
  10. Reports & Analytics to track performance

Features of Medicine Delivery Boy App

  1. Driver profile which creates a profile for each driver
  2. Delivery status, location, and order status can be understood
  3. Instant notification on delivered orders
  4. Route optimization with online maps, hence faster delivery

 

How Much Does Medicine Delivery App Development Cost?

Creating an app from scratch is an expensive process. But what decides the expenses depend upon a lot of different factors. These are some of the parameters that determine the cost of app development. There can be a great difference in the prices when you are developing the app in-house compared to outsourcing it.

  1. What features does the app have?
  2. The platforms the app runs in – iOS, Android
  3. Compliance to regulations
  4. The location where your outsourced team is based
  5. Duration of the time development process
  6. Market research and business analysis

Step-by-Step Process of Developing a Medicine Delivery App

When you venture out to create a medicine delivery app, you need to know a couple of things. First, you need to identify your unique selling prospect or USP. This has to be what sets you apart from your competitors. Let us look at the process of developing an online pharmacy or medicine delivery app.

  1. Study the Market: Before you begin, you need to know what your market size is, who your competitors are, what hurdles you may face, and the scope of growth in your region.
  2. Hire a Professional software developer company: Hiring a medicine app development company can save you from many problems you can face as they are experts in what they do.
  3. Find a business model and monetization strategy: Every business has a monetization strategy that works for them. After thorough research, you can find what works for you and your business model.
  4. Launch a prototype first: Instead of cramming all of the features into a single app and launching it, develop a basic version and add the additional features.
  5. App Maintenance: The app is not a one-time production. It requires constant monitoring for an error-free life. Even before it is launched, it has to be tested thoroughly for bugs. It is also important that you constantly update the app for the best user experience.
  6. Vibrant marketing: An app cannot market itself. You have it do it. Make sure you have a rigorous marketing strategy that ensures your app gets the maximum visibility. Once your app is out there, your advertisements should focus on building a strong and recurrent customer base.

Also, read Medicine Delivery App Development Guide for Online Pharmacies.

Summing It Up

Building a medicine delivery app is no easy task. There is so much work and effort that goes into different fronts. When all of this comes together, you get a fully functional and useful app. You can either put together an in-house team to create the app for you or outsource the job to a medicine delivery app development company. Doing it in-house can be very expensive as you have to do it from scratch, provide the technology and infrastructure, and wager on a team working together for the first time.

On the contrary, outsourcing means you are enlisting the help of experts who have done it before. An experienced and talented team like EMed HealthTech can help you realize your medicine delivery app at great speeds. EMed HealthTech has been providing app development services in the medical field and accumulating experience along the way. Reach out to us today at EMed HealthTech and start a free trial of SaaS pharmacy software.

10-Benefits-of-5G-Launch-on-Healthcare-in-India

10 Benefits of 5G Launch on Healthcare in India

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

The advancements in modern technology have always been a boon for the world of healthcare. The latest 5G rollout is no different. At the outset, faster internet services and better connectivity bring immense potential to be explored in the healthcare sector.

First, let us look at the new technology that we call 5G and how it is different from its predecessors. Also, we take an in-depth look at what this means for the health sector in India. For a nation speeding its way towards development and modernization, the healthcare sector can benefit significantly from this new technology. Finally, we look at what it means for healthcare app development, which relies heavily on the speed and quality of the internet connection.

What is 5G?

Let us shed some light on what 5G is. In simple terms, 5G refers to the Fifth Generation of wireless network technology. For the previous generations, 1G focused on improving voice quality, which was picked up and improved upon by 2G. 3G is what opened the avenues of the internet to mobile users. 4G immensely increased the speed of wireless internet and data sharing.

What 5G brings to the table is high-speed connectivity, high data rate, low latency, and highly reliable communications. It also has aspects that increase energy efficiency, network efficiency, and spectrum efficiency.

When was 5G launched in India?

India launched 5G internet services on October 1, 2022. It was launched ceremoniously by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Indian Mobile Congress in New Delhi. It was flagged off and will be available in select cities across India. The 5G services will be progressively available throughout the country in the coming years. The Prime Minister called it a “knock on the doors of a new era”. The opportunities a technology like 5G presents to India are immense.

 

How does 5G benefit healthcare in India?

Previously 4G was used in the healthcare sector to improve the services, reach, and efficiency. However, 4G was not without faults. It was riddled with lags and would often fail its purpose. However, the new 5G improves upon 4G at incredible rates. Here are some of the imminent benefits of adopting 5G services in the healthcare sector in India.

Benefits of 5G Launch on Healthcare in India

1.  Connected ambulance

This concept could help improve emergency services, the quality of healthcare provided, and better outcomes for the patient. A connected ambulance would have means to transmit vital information about the patient, which can help better understand the patient’s condition, even before they arrive at the hospital. 5G’s better connectivity can also help doctors guide paramedics to conduct emergency procedures.

2. Collaborative surgery

Surgical procedures can get a boost with 5G procedures. While telesurgery is still a long way, collaborative surgeries are an attainable goal. With the help of AR/VR headsets, doctors can collaborate by watching in real-time and providing comments as another doctor performs the surgery.

3. Virtual consultations at HD quality

While internet connectivity already brought the facility of remote consultation, 5G takes it to a new level with its high speed and higher consistent quality. With 5G, the screening and assessments required for a consultation can be done online, thanks to the quality of the stream 5G ensures. Visual diagnoses can take a new definition with 5G assistance.

4. Faster image and records processing

5G offers better connectivity for transferring diagnostic images and reports at a stunning speed. What earlier took a long time can now in a surprisingly low amount of time. This gives patients faster access to treatment as they don’t have to shuttle between hospitals and diagnostic centers for results.

5. Remote patient monitoring with Telemedicine

Remote healthcare service delivery with a Telemedicine platform can be more efficient and proactive with 5G. With high speed, quality, and security, patients in far-off areas and those with chronic illnesses or mobility issues can use the services of 5G internet.

6. AR & VR for visually challenged

There are a lot of visually challenged people who suffer from impairment to different degrees. With the help of 5G-powered AR and VR tech, they can have a better sense of control over their surroundings with audio assistance from VR/AR goggles. Live advisors help them navigate their surroundings with high-speed 5G-powered tech.

7. Medication assistance through HD video

One of the innovative ways internet connections are used is to help those who may need help with medication assistance. This may be elderly or mentally ill patients who may not be able to have their medication in the prescribed amount or at the right time. Trained pharmacists engage them at the right time to consume the right amount of medicine. Thanks to 5G, this can be done in real-time and in high-quality streaming.

8. Innovative use in therapy

The use of AR and VR in rehabilitative therapy and distraction therapy has been implemented in different countries. It has potential applications in India as well. With the help of advanced 5G, this is possible. Patients can use AR/VR-assisted therapy.

9. 5G for medical education

The high speed, quality, and consistency 5G offers are a boon for medical students. With remote education a tangible option, 5G offers the potential to conduct in-depth training via high-speed connectivity. Students can watch AR/VR setup or live streaming procedures and collaborate.

10. Real-time transfer of data from wearables

Wearable tech has become a staple among our accessories. But when equipped with 5G tech, it becomes a powerful tool that transfers vital data in real-time. It can help recognize anomalies and connect to healthcare providers who can monitor your vitals remotely.

 

What does it mean for healthcare app development?

Healthcare software development is an area that is immensely benefited from the advancement of 5G technology. With 5G tech, healthcare services can be distributed more democratically and efficiently among people. Hospitals prefer to invest in custom healthcare software development as they see its potential in bridging the gap between healthcare services and the common man. Also, read A Guide to Custom Healthcare Software Development.

If you are looking for custom healthcare app development services, EMed HealthTech is a reliable destination for you. Our expert team of healthcare software developers specializes in building custom healthcare app and software that efficiently run on 5G technology. We will help you leverage technology to gain a competitive edge while delivering high-quality services to a wider group of customers. Book an appointment with us to get started today!

 

Custom-Healthcare-Software-vs.-Readymade-Healthcare

Custom Healthcare Software vs. Readymade Healthcare Software

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

Technological advancements have found innovative applications in every industry. The Healthcare sector has benefited by using technology to make its processes smooth and more efficient. They may be healthcare software development that aids in running a medical facility smoothly or a device that provides better medical service.
When it comes to hospital management software, there are a lot of options available. Are you looking for business-centric medical software like a patient health record management system, medical billing software, or hospital management software? There is also the option of patient-centric software like telemedicine software, appointment scheduler, medicine order software, etc.

Whether you are looking for a patient- or business-centric healthcare software, there are two ways to go about it. You can either choose custom healthcare app development or software development that suits your needs or buy ready-made software available in the market. It is a tough decision as it is a huge business investment. So we break down everything in this article to help you choose the right one for your business strategy.

What are the different types of healthcare software?

Before you dive into the world of custom-made and ready-made healthcare software, let us look at the different kinds of healthcare software that are used by a medical facility like a hospital:

healthcare software

 

Online Pharmacy Software

An Online Pharmacy/ePharmacy is an online platform for medical store owners, through which they can sell medicines online to their customers.

Hospital Management Software

This versatile software has many components like appointment management, patient management, supply management, facility management, insurance management, support management, etc.

Medicine Delivery Software

A medicine delivery software allows patients to order prescribed medicines online that will be delivered via the nearest pharmacy store.

EHR Software

EHR or Electronic Health Record serves as a patient’s medical history database. With comprehensive data available, medical services become more efficient.

Telemedicine Software

Telemedicine, a part of Telehealth, delivers healthcare using electronic information & technology and supports healthcare when distance separates the patients.

Medical Imaging Software

This software allows doctors to view, store, train, and share medical data and provide efficient treatment.

Doctor Appointment Booking Software

Doctor appointment booking software is specially developed to help patients to book, manage and schedule appointments with doctors or video consultations.

Medical Billing Software

This software is ideal for hospitals to prevent mistakes, enhance the patient experience, and provide an efficient interface to manage all the expenses within a facility.

Medical Lab Diagnosis Software

This is an AI-powered lab diagnosis software that can automate and interconnect medical diagnostic processes. It ensures that there is a low chance of error in the diagnostic results.

What are Custom Healthcare Software and Readymade Healthcare Software?

Custom Healthcare Software

Every health care facility is different. Each has a different approach to doing business and hence has unique requirements. Naturally, such a facility would want custom healthcare app development or software development to suit its needs. It is a personalized healthcare product designed according to the business’s needs. It is designed to easily adapt to existing business processes and launch new digital workflows with ease. It is not meant to be sold or distributed to other parties.

The different tools and features of such custom healthcare software are privately owned by the same company. With custom healthcare software development, features suited to the business are readily available. The healthcare business can easily target certain aspects, maximize efficiency, and exact the required output. It is a transparent application with no hidden functionality or costs, with an interface designed specifically for the client’s ease.

Ready-Made Healthcare Software

Readymade healthcare software is generic. It is built by large healthcare software development companies that cater to entire industries and different businesses.
Readymade healthcare software is suitable for a whole range of businesses. Hence it has a larger host of functionalities to serve the needs of different types of users. It is designed for commercial sale. It has easy configurations that allow it to be integrated into existing systems without hassles.

It has a lot of features, some of which may be useful and some of which might not be. It can also have hidden costs and features irrelevant to the business buying such software. Its features cater to the general need of a particular type of business rather than the specific needs of a business. Hence it cannot fully adapt to the needs of the business.

Benefits of Custom Made Healthcare Software

Let us look closely at the advantages of custom healthcare software development and readymade healthcare software.

Custom healthcare software advantages

  • Customization: Custom-made software has highly adapted features to your business processes.
  • Compatibility: Software designed to suit your needs is highly compatible with your business processes and workflows.
  • Autonomy: You can automate tasks, integrate processes and expand features in any way that works for you.
  • An advantage over competitors: With a higher level of personalization, you get a competitive advantage over other businesses.
  • Scalability: Your business is ever-changing and growing. Custom healthcare software that scales up with your growth is a great investment.
  • Economical and Effective: Custom-made healthcare software is much more economical than ready-made healthcare software. This is because businesses can use all the features without renewing their license yearly or buying new features as the business grows.
  • Better Security: It has a better security system than software openly available for sale. It ensures all your data, including patient and administrative data, are safe from prying eyes.
  • Compliance: Compliance is a sensitive issue that has to be handled with care. Custom-made software ensures that it is built and compliant with the rules and regulations under whose jurisdiction your business falls.

Benefits of Ready-made Healthcare Software

  • Readily available: There is no need to spend time developing software as it is readily available off the shelf.
  • Lower initial investment: Buying ready-made software solutions is cheaper than developing a custom-made one. It has free trial periods that let you decide whether the software suits your needs. It has flexible price ranges determined by the number of software users than the software itself.
  • Multi-Functional: A ready-made solution is meant for use by many people than a custom-made solution. This means you get a feature-rich product that can be used according to your specific needs.
  • User Friendly: It is designed to be highly user-friendly and meant for intuitive use. Since it cannot be explained to each new user, it is meant to be self-explanatory.
  • High Community Support: Since it is used by many people, dedicated communities provide invaluable support in the form of information and hacks to make it easier to use.
  • Maintenance and Support: Ready-made software gets automated updates throughout its usage. You can also avail of comprehensive support for your application without having to deploy your teams for it.

EMed HealthTech: Your Answer for all Healthcare Software Solutions

There are plenty of healthcare software service providers that design software for the needs of your business. However, finding a design company that tailors software to your needs can be a tough challenge. Whether ready or custom-made healthcare software, you need to hire software developers who can diligently understand your needs and apply them to the software.

Also, check out this blog What is the Importance Of Healthcare IT Solutions in Patient Care?

EMed HealthTech has been a leading player in the healthcare software development industry for almost a decade. We specialize as healthcare IT consultants providing expert service with our software solutions. Whether you are planning to hire healthcare app developers for custom or ready-made healthcare software, EMed HealthTech has done it all. With a long list of loyal clients, we focus on empowering our clients with healthcare software solutions that maximize business outcomes and improve user experience. Reach out to us today to get a free estimate.

Key-Regulatory-Compliance-Standards

Key Regulatory Compliance Standards That Healthcare Software Developers Should Know About

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

Building healthcare software from scratch is no cakewalk. A lot of effort goes into ensuring the software works as planned and checks every box, from performance to compliance. However, this last bit is where many custom healthcare software development projects take stumble.

Healthcare regulatory and security compliance and regulations are matters that cannot be taken lightly. With authorities worldwide tightening up data security norms, the penalties for non-compliance are harsh, and companies at fault have to pay dearly. Earlier this year, a healthcare software provider was fined a whopping $1.5 million in fines to French data protection authorities. In the US, penalties for security violations by medical companies can cost up to $1.5 million.

In short, the devil is always in the details, and the nitty-gritty details in the regulations can land you in trouble.

Therefore, if you are planning on healthcare software or healthcare app development,

This article will give you an idea of what compliances and regulations are, why they are implemented, and the different regulations you should be aware of.

What are Regulatory Compliances for Healthcare Products?

As in every industry, the healthcare industry is also ruled by certain regulations that determine what is legal and illegal. These are designed with everyone’s best interest at heart, and not complying can come with hefty penalties. There are issues like privacy and data security, and safety and care for the patient that these regulations try to address. If healthcare software does not follow these regulations, it can invite large amounts of fines and disciplinary action from the government.

Every country has certain regulations the healthcare industry needs to follow while implementing healthcare software solutions. Some of the major regulations are given below.

  1. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) -USA
  2. The Federal Food, Medicine, and Cosmetic Act-(FFDCA)-USA
  3. Food and Medicine Administration (FDA) -USA
  4. Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) -USA
  5. Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) – Australia
  6. Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) -Canada
  7. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) — The European Union -European Union

Complying to these depending upon where your healthcare service is focused is crucial. Let us look at some of the reasons why regulations and compliances need to be followed.

 

Why Is It Essential to Follow Regulatory Compliance in Healthcare Software and App Development?

Privacy & Data Security

Regarding healthcare software development, the primary concern that regulations take care of is privacy and data security.
The digital world is constantly threatened with cyber attacks, and, naturally, there are potential threats to healthcare solutions too. The sensitive data that people share with healthcare providers are stored digitally. This software often uses cloud computing technology to function. All of these cyber spaces are prone to attacks and data theft.
This threat also makes people more reluctant to use software solutions, making everything much easier. It is a hurdle healthcare providers have to overcome. Thankfully, governments are issuing strict regulations that protect patient health information(PHI).

Patient-Centric Care

These regulations are not only about data protection but part of an overall effort to make healthcare more patient-centric. With these regulations in place, the healthcare IT service provider has to put the patient’s needs first and give utmost care to not let any slip-ups happen. It also curbs fraudulent practices within the healthcare system, ensuring no patient is taken advantage of by the big industry. In connection to the previous point, data protection protects the patient from potential emotional harm a data or identity theft can cause them.

Avoid Fines and financial losses

The price to pay for not complying with government regulations can be sometimes too high. It is rightly so as it is not a small thing to overlook. Fines as high as $1.5 million can be incurred if the healthcare software used does not comply with the regulations of the place.

A healthcare service provider can also incur heavy losses if these protective measures are not adhered to. Data breaches, holding data for ransom, etc are ways in which healthcare providers can be ensnared in the cyber traps.

Regulatory Approval

It goes without saying that you cannot get your software product to work in the public sector without the seal of approval from these regulatory bodies. Moving forward without gaining a certificate of compliance is impossible. Only in the case of updated regulations can the above problems come into existence.
These are some of the compliance reasons. Let us look at some of the healthcare standards you should be aware of before you hire healthcare software developers.

Regulatory Compliances for Healthtech Products in Different Countries

Countless regulations ensure compliance in the healthcare industry. Instead of it being a deterrent, it ensures better services and benefits for all involved. Some of the major ones are:

FFDCA – USA

The Federal Food, Medicine, and Cosmetic Act govern medical devices, under which healthcare software falls, pharmaceuticals, and more. To get FFDCA compliance, one has to first comply with several other approvals like the PMA (Pre-Market Approval), Pre-Cert Program (Digital Health Software Pre-Certification Program), SaMD (Software as a Medical Device), and the LDT (Laboratory Developed Test).

HIPAA – USA

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 defines the rules ones needs to follow if one intends to collect, store and exchange personal data from a customer. Healthcare facilities that do not comply with this can bring legal action against them.

If your software is related to PHI (protected health information), EMRs (electronic medical records), or EHR (electronic health records), then you need to comply with the HIPAA requirements.

HITECH Act – USA

The HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical) Act came into place to promote the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology. It enforces healthcare providers to comply with HIPAA regulations.

Food and Medicine Administration (FDA)

Every software application or standalone device meant for mass public use must first undergo the rigorous scrutiny of the FDA under the United States Department of Health and Human Services. FDA assesses the software for compliance and regulations and only then approves its use and distribution among the public.

OAIC – Australia

Regulations pertaining to the use and distribution of software and healthcare technology are administered by the OAIC or Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. It defines how the personal information from patients is collected, stored, and disclosed. It also gives patients full control over sensitive data. Healthcare providers must give them complete network security and immediate reports in case of data breaches.

PIPEDA – Canada

Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, 2000 (PIPEDA) governs the rules for personal information handled by businesses for commercial activity. It is similar to HIPAA, however, it provides additional data protection in medical apps. It can fine up to $100,000 for each case of violation.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) — The European Union

This is generally applicable inside the European Union. Compared to other regulatory bodies, GDPR widens what falls under sensitive data, including biometric data, genetic data, IP addresses, and data on racial and ethnic origin and religion. Individuals can withdraw their consent at any time.

Conclusion

Compliances and Regulations in custom healthcare app development must be carefully considered before the final product is rolled out. It is better to be aware of and implement the regulations than to suffer financial losses and government legal action. Before you decide to hire healthcare app developers, you must check whether they have a history of non-compliance or legal action being taken against them.

Also, check out this blog A Guide to Custom Healthcare Software Development.

It is better to hire an experienced team that can provide the best custom healthcare services and solutions with all the necessary compliances than to clean up after the mess of an inexperienced team. EMed HealthTech is your best bet if you want to create a system that adheres to all regulations. We provide the best service to our clients with compliance followed to the dot and constant updates on all changing regulations. Reach out to us today to book an appointment with us at EMed HealthTech.

Medical-Care-Can-Be-Valuable

Medical Care Can Be Valuable: Why Healthcare Needs Telemedicine Technology?

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

Technology has enabled medical care to easily find a niche online. With platforms like the Telemedicine app, there is ease in conducting medical services that were not available before. Thanks to COVID, the masses have opened up to the possibility of digital healthcare services exponentially, thus making apparent its benefits. Let us take a detailed look at telemedicine and how it reshapes how we perceive medical care.

What is Telemedicine App Development?

Telemedicine, simply put, is the platform where a medical health care provider is connected to their patient via technology. It has been around since there were advanced means of communication. What started as medical advice via the radio evolved in time to become the full-fledged service portals we now know as telemedicine. Today’s technology has enabled a holistic approach to providing medical services. Its benefits are immense, and it is enjoyed by both the patient and the healthcare provider.

Despite its benefits, telemedicine did not enjoy the acceptance it has today as it did before the COVID pandemic. According to McKinsey.com, the onset of COVID saw a spike in telemedicine usage as high as 32%, which quickly stabilized to be at a rate that is 38 times higher than the pre-COVID period.

How is Telemedicine Used?

The telemedicine app offers a plethora of opportunities for medical staff as well as patients. For patients, the obvious advantage of telemedicine is medical help would be available even if it is remote. This allows a patient to save the resources used to reach the medical facility, and it gives the patient the option of discretion. Medicines could be prescribed online, and medicines can reach one’s home even by simply opting for delivery.

For medical care providers, telemedicine provides access to chronically ill or critically ill patients from their homes, access to more patients from remote areas, lower exposure to pathogens, consultation from home, etc.
Hospitals and clinics are increasingly adopting telemedicine technology and strategies to include virtual medical care in their services. The immense benefits it provides to the medical care facility regarding business cannot be ignored.

Let us now look at the benefits of telemedicine and what makes it an indispensable aspect of modern medicine.

The Benefits of Telemedicine

benefits-telemedicine

Low Cost

One of the biggest advantages of telemedicine is that it allows the patient to consult the doctor without spending the money and time to travel to the healthcare center. The patient will only have to remit the consultation charges.

Data Management Tools

Telemedicine app allows medical care providers and patients to update their data on a single platform. Medical facilities can store this data to maintain a comprehensive medical history of the patient. This will help provide treatment strategies and analytical insights from large amounts of data.

Remote Access

This is a matter of both access and comfort. Patients who do not have easy access to medical facilities as they live in remote areas can avail of telemedicine to meet their medical consultations. In other cases, patients might prefer the comfort of their homes to meeting the doctor online. This would give them the privacy a public place might not offer.

Access to Specialist Doctors

A patient seeking a specialist doctor may have to travel great distances to meet them. Since specialist doctors, especially those specializing in rare fields, are hard to come by. It can also be difficult to get appointments with them. With a doctor appointment booking app, all of it gets easier. Be it the distance, scheduling an appointment, or the cost of travel.

No More Queues

Another outstanding advantage of telemedicine is the dreaded wait in the waiting room. It is daunting enough to drag oneself out to meet a doctor but to wait in line till one’s turn can prove a little too much for a patient. With telemedicine, there is no need to wait in line and bear the discomfort. With telemedicine, one has to meet the doctor at the appointed time online, without the wait and queue.

Safety from Infectious Pathogens

This is another obvious benefit for both the doctor and the patient. Patients can save themselves from being in crowded rooms with many other sick patients, and the doctor need not meet every infected patient. This way, a lot of unnecessary exposure and risk can be minimized.

Scheduling Appointments and Follow Ups.

With telemedicine apps, making an appointment with a doctor is easy. One simply has to find the doctor, check their availability and make a booking. Telemedicine also enables easy follow-up for patients as they can talk to their doctor via video or call to give updates.

Flexibility

Working individuals and students need not take days off to consult a doctor. With telehealth facilities, they can simply schedule an appointment according to their convenience. This flexibility benefits the doctor too. Scheduling appointments via telemedicine allows the doctor to easily book and cancel appointments and even provide extended service hours.

Emergency Services

A significant benefit of telehealth is access to quality healthcare in cases of emergency. If a patient can access emergency doctors in the middle of the night or from a remote area for an emergency, they can provide valuable medical help to avoid bigger problems.

Overall Better Health

The biggest benefit and outcome of telemedicine is that it provides access to overall better health. When a person has access to quality healthcare services at any given time, with proper follow-up, at affordable rates, the chances of being healthy are higher.

Conclusion

The benefits of telemedicine are immense. It is no wonder that healthcare IT services are increasingly being adopted by hospitals and clinics. Be it a facility of any size, there is a telemedicine application that is built to suit its needs. Telemedicine apps may be custom-made for healthcare facilities with unique features that cater to the facility’s specific needs. It may also be generic and readymade software solutions that can cater to broad categories of healthcare facilities. Choosing one according to one’s needs and budget is what matters.

Also, check out The Seven Challenges of Telemental Health and How to Overcome Them.

However, the harder part is choosing the company for your telemedicine app development when they are available a dime a dozen, it is safe to stick to the well-established names in the industry. EMed HealthTech is a leading provider of healthcare IT solutions and services to leading healthcare facilities worldwide. With almost a decade of experience, we have a team of seasoned designers and developers who create applications that are a perfect fit for you. Reach out to EMed HealthTech today to get a free estimate for Telemedicine app!

Top 5 Tips to Hire the Right Healthcare App Developers

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

Healthcare applications and healthcare software are slowly but surely becoming an essential part of the modern healthcare system. From mobile devices to wearables that track vitals, they are being fed with metrics that analyze and provide accurate feedback. These are linked to healthcare software and healthcare app development that give users information on their general well-being.

The usage of healthcare apps that are linked to the mobile phone or wearables also called health apps in the past year has seen a spike since the onset COVID pandemic in 2020. A worldwide spike of 65% was noted in the download of healthcare apps according to Statista. However, this is not a one-time event as the healthcare apps market had a massive five-fold increase from $21billion in 2016 to $100 billion in 2021. This estimate will go up to $189 billion by the year 2025.

With surging demand for healthcare applications and software, businesses are striving every day to improve on existing apps and get a foothold in the already vast market.

With the demand for healthcare apps and software rising, there comes an equal demand for healthcare software developers to create such apps. But, it can be difficult to find the right developers from a sea of candidates.

In this blog, we offer some insights on what you should keep in mind while hiring a software developer.

 

healthcare-software-development-team

 

1. Outsource to a third-party healthtech team or hire your healthcare developer team.

The matter of whether the team has to be outsourced or employed in-house has its own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at them.

     Outsourcing – Outsourcing is advantageous as it lessens the expenditure by a large portion compared to in-house employees. There is no process like hiring, training, onboarding, or training to be part of the company. You can also pick a team from virtually anywhere. This gives a huge talent pool at your disposal.

The disadvantage of outsourcing is that there could be issues of time zone differences and language barriers. This could diminish the quality of the communication and hence affect the outcome.

     Hiring in-house healthtech employees– The advantage of an in-house team is that there is stronger communication of your ideas, expectations, and feedback on the project. The in-house team would also give you undivided attention compared to outsourced staff. It also negates the disadvantages that outsourcing has in terms of barriers of language and time.

The disadvantage of hiring in-house healthtech employees is that the costs of hiring, employing, and providing the technological infrastructure can be exorbitant. You would also have to hire from local talent which would cut down your chances of finding that perfect fit.

 

2. Where can you find healthcare software developers?

Here are a few places you can start your search for software developers for a healthcare app.

Job platforms like Upwork and Freelancer have a large pool of talent that is actively looking for job opportunities.

Software Development companies that specialize in healthcare applications. You can find them on ratings and reviews platforms. A thorough look at their previous works can help you understand their mettle and performance. Platforms like Clutch, Madeline, and GoodFirms are good places to start looking.

3. Check portfolios for healthtech projects

Another important aspect to keep in mind while hiring a development team for a healthcare app is to look for a strong portfolio with previous work experience in the healthcare app industry. Since there are a lot of compliance and regulation issues to take care of while developing healthcare apps, a prior experience in the niche is always a plus.

4. What to look for in a healthcare software developer?

The size and scale of your project would put you in a position where you cannot take many risks. It is an absolute must that you do a thorough skill check before hiring a candidate, whether they are outsourced or employed in-house.

Some of the hard skills a candidate should have can be summed up in the given list.

  1. Interoperability in Healthcare with integration standards no less than Health level-7.2.x. It would be a plus to know standards such as ANSI X12n 5010, NCPDP SCRIPT, DICOM, and HL7 v3 CDA.
  2. Well-versed in semantic vocabularies such as ICD9/10, RxNorm, LOINC, and SNOMED-CT among others.
  3. Knowledge of Integration frameworks like HITSP or Healthcare Information Technology Standards Panel and IHE or Integrated Healthcare Enterprise.

The candidate should also have technical skills such as:

  1. Knowledge of Big data AI to leverage the existing healthcare data from EHRs and insurance companies.
  2. Well-versed in cybersecurity measures, knowledge of libraries, secure coding practices, and strong encryption tools.
  3. Ability to use third-party integrations to optimize and streamline workflows. This requires knowledge of integration standards such as the HL7 FHIR, REST, and SOAP frameworks.

The next most required skill is the knowledge of domain concepts. Some of them include:

  1. Knowledge of regulatory aspects like HIPAA, FDA, ARRA HITECH, CCHIT, etc, depending on the jurisdiction under which the application is.
  2. Well-versed in operating revenue cycle workflows.

The candidate must also be screened for soft skills such as:

  1. Ability to work in teams and strategize according to the need of the healthcare project.
  2. Interpersonal skills of healthcare technologies.
  3. Knowledge of the usability and applicability of healthcare IT solutions.

 

Ready to Hire a Healthcare Software Development Team?

Before you hire healthcare app developers from a healthcare IT solutions company, it is prudent to have a thorough check on the previous projects they have worked on. This is the ultimate litmus test for an IT solutions company. The final product speaks volumes about their services. It is also necessary to check if your business needs are compatible with the services the IT company offers.

With that, we’ve rounded up some of the most critical things to consider when hiring a healthcare app development company. If you’re on the lookout for a reliable healthcare app developer, EMed HealthTech ticks off all the boxes.

When you hire EMed HealthTech as your healthcare software developer, you are investing in a strong team that is well-versed in all the relevant aspects of software development mentioned above. You also have the option to choose from remote dedicated healthcare developers, offshore healthcare development teams, or onsite healthcare app developers. Our previous healthcare IT projects are available in our portfolio, which speaks for itself.

To know more about hiring healthcare app developers, contact us today or simply fill out our online contact form and our expert team members will get in touch with you.

All-in-One-Guide

A Guide to Custom Healthcare Software Development

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

Healthcare and technology have found new grounds for collaboration with the various forms of virtual health care via Telemedicine apps. Be it for your appointment with your doctor, collecting blood reports, or even tracking your general well-being and vitals, there is a technological solution for it today.

Healthcare technology has eased the many problems we face from the conventional healthcare system. Virtual healthcare in the form of virtual doctor visits, mobile pharmaceuticals, laboratory service, and health records management has become a household name as well as a need of time. The shift to technologically advanced solutions that are convenient is inevitable.

Let us then take a look at what the numbers suggest:

  1. Although telemedicine or virtual healthcare has been around for a long time, its usage saw an all-time spike in April of 2020. The usage of virtual healthcare during April 2020 was 78x higher than in February 2020, according to McKinsey and Company.
  2. The Asia-Pacific regions reported a surge from 4% to 56% during 2021, as per a survey by Willis Towers Watson.
  3. The Indian telemedicine industry is predicted to have a CAGR of 23.89% from 2020-2025 according to biresearch.com.

Apart from the response from the patients, healthcare providers are also eagerly adopting virtual care and telemedicine software solutions. According to the survey by COVID-19 Healthcare Coalition, more than 60% of healthcare providers found telehealth applications more convenient and more than 50% found more work satisfaction.

What is Healthcare Software Development?

custom-healthcare-software

Many different software solutions are designed to help the functioning of healthcare personnel or centers. They perform a broad range of activities that optimize performance, manage data, cut down the time taken and reduce costs in the process of imparting healthcare services.

Healthcare software is used by both healthcare service providers as well as receivers. Hence it has features as well as specific user interfaces that cater to both ends. Each healthcare software is made to suit the needs of the situation, be it a large hospital or a small clinic.

Healthcare software can thus be considered a broad name for all the different applications that cater to the healthcare industry. We will discuss more of the different types below.

Different Types of Healthcare Software

It is no secret that the prevalence of smartphones and tablets has enabled the use of healthcare software on a large scale. There are umpteen apps that provide some sort of healthcare service. Be it a platform to connect to a healthcare provider or one that promotes general wellness, the numbers keep on growing.

Healthcare apps can be divided in a broad stroke into two- for healthcare providers and patients or general users. The apps and the functionalities that cater to each are vastly different from the others.

Custom Healthcare Software for Patients

The software designed for patients and general users is designed to solve one or the other health issue, monitor health, etc. These apps allow them to seek medical attention if needed. Here are some of the different types of custom software developed for patients.

 

software-development

  1. Healthcare accessibility software: These are software that allows users who need medical consultation to seek it personally. These are designed to be multifaceted, one of which serves the patient. It allows for easy and convenient consultation which would otherwise take a lot of time and money. It may also have features that allow users to access their laboratory reports, access pharmacies to place orders, and store medical history and access it with ease.
  2. Mental Health Software: Virtual care has created greater access to mental health services. There is dedicated software that provides the platform for consultations, therapy sessions, etc.
  3. Health monitoring software: These are the most prevalent form of healthcare software. They provide a plethora of services that help manage health issues. They allow patients to keep track of their illnesses.
  4. Medication and pharmaceutical services: These apps allow patients to virtually place orders for their medicines, make subscription offers for long-term medications, and more. There are also apps designed to remind patients to take medication on time.
  5. Lifestyle apps: These are applications that guide users to lead healthy eating habits and hobbies that promote general wellness.
  6. Fitness apps: These apps cater to those who are looking for personalized solutions to their fitness problems. Solutions like exercise, yoga, activities like sports, and diet plans to help achieve fitness goals.

 

Custom Healthcare Software Development for Healthcare Professionals

When it comes to custom software development for healthcare practitioners or providers, it caters to a lot of different categories of people and services. Some of these apps have more than one functionality and some have all. Depending upon the need of the medical care facility, they are:

 

types-of-healthcare-software

  1. Telehealth: Applications that provide a platform for healthcare providers to impart their services are referred to as telehealth applications. Telemedicine apps and Doctor appointment booking apps are used by doctors for consultations and make it very convenient for both the doctor and the patient.
  2. Hospital management software: These are software that is integrated into the hospital system to enable smooth and optimized functioning of the different aspects of a hospital. It also provides data management capabilities, insurance, and payment processing, administrative work, claims management, and patient information.
  3. Health Record Software: These act as repositories of information, that provides a unified platform to easily access patient records and medical history. Knowing the health records of a patient gives the healthcare professional a better idea of providing treatment.
  4. E-Medicine order software: Share medicine orders with ease to patients using this application.
  5. Monitoring software: This software allows healthcare providers to closely monitor the health of patients. This is useful for patients who are chronically ill or are at some incapacity to take care of themselves.

 

How to Build a Custom Healthcare Software Development?

A software solution for your healthcare facility or business is a great initiative as the above-mentioned stats prove how much they are in demand. It also has other advantages like optimizing performance, improving efficiency, increasing revenue, and increasing customer satisfaction.

There are two ways to build a custom healthcare software

  1. employing an in-house team of developers
  2. Outsourcing

While employing an in-house team may seem like a feasible option due to proximity, speed, and efficiency, it has many disadvantages like higher expenditure, lack of expertise or experience, etc.
Time and again healthcare facilities chose to employ outsourced talent to build custom software for healthcare.

Before you consider picking a custom healthcare app development company like EMed HealhTech you should look for technological expertise, industry knowledge, the capacity and scalability of the company, and its developer’s skills. Another important aspect is the security measures that are incorporated into the healthcare app as it deals with very sensitive information.

Why Choose EMed HealthTech to Develop a Custom Healthcare Software?

EMed HealthTech is a leading healthcare IT company that focuses on delivering quality and innovation. We cater to healthcare facilities of all sizes and provide customized healthcare IT solutions that help improve business prospects.

Your search for hiring healthcare software developers ends with EMed HealthTech. Contact us today to get a free estimate for your custom medical software development project.

 

Common-Challenges-of-Telemental-Health

The Seven Challenges of Telemental Health and How to Overcome Them?

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

The mental health scenario in India is a bleak one, with one in every seven people suffering from a clinically diagnosable mental disorder, according to a study by Lancet Psychiatry. There is also a huge disparity in the doctor-patient ratio. The required ratio, according to WHO, stands at 3 psychiatrists per 100,000 population, but India has only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000. This ratio is made taking into consideration that India is a low-income country.

However, with the entry of telemedicine into the mainstream, things are starting to look different. A virtual care system nullifies a lot of the geographical and physical barriers that keep a person from mental health services. With more access and awareness, the social stigma surrounding mental health issues also disperse. However, implementing a telemental health service has its challenges. We discuss some of the major challenges faced by Telemental Health and Telemedicine app development and how to overcome them.

 

Telemental Health Landscape in India

The telemental health landscape got a boost this year with the central government launching its National Tele-Mental Health Program (NTMPH).

The launch comes as a welcome change in the wake of the COVID pandemic. Having to withdraw from social circles, being forced into isolation, loss of loved ones, and threatened job security are post-COVID factors that have left a debilitating impact on mental health.

However, mental health issues are not just personal struggles. Studies show a deep connection between mental health crises and the economy of a nation. A simple explanation could be that poor mental health causes a loss of productivity, negatively affecting businesses and by extension, the whole economy. Not surprisingly, poor mental health is believed to have cost the world economy a whopping $2·5 trillion on average in 2010 — a number that’s about to rise to an unbelievable $6 trillion by 2030. India, alone, is estimated to face an economic loss of US$ 1.03 trillion due to mental health problems, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

While the new action plans and studies shed a ray of hope on the telemental health care scenario, it is not without its own set of challenges.

Challenges of Telemental Health

challenges

Privacy

One of the major challenges in making use of the telemental health care system would be privacy. While privacy is a must in every medical consultation, in the case of mental health issues, there is the weight of social stigma attached to it. If a person decides to reach out to a mental health professional for help, this is often done discreetly. The lack of a private space is also a concern given that most Indian households have joint family systems. A space that is private and safe is a must to ensure that patients can fully avail of telemental health services.

Preference for in-person care

Despite the availability of virtual care, some people prefer in-person care. This is because mental health issues are more sensitive. Being able to confide in the presence of another person provides the warmth of human contact while a virtual consultation might seem cold and distant. It is also important to consider that most people would be forced to stay in an environment that might be conducive to their mental health deterioration. In-person, care ensures that the patient is part of a support group and in an environment that acknowledges their issues.

This preference gets in the way of patients accessing mental health services as well as telemental health providers.

Digital Literacy and Networking Issues

Using telemental health applications means that the patient requires a certain amount of know-how about technology. India particularly faces a large demographic of digitally challenged people, which amounts to 80% of 1.4 billion people. Digital literacy gets in the way of the proper implementation of telemental health programs.

Another glaring issue is connectivity. While there is an equivalent of 81.3% of the total population, the internet penetration rate in India is still at 47% as of 2021. This means that more than half of the population does not have access to the Internet. Because most telemental health services take place over the internet, a large portion of the people is not able to access this due to low connectivity.

Strategies to Overcome the Challenges

The challenges faced by the telemedicine industry in implementing its services are often broad. Here are a few strategies we can adopt to battle the challenges.

Awareness and Education on mental health

A developing country like India has its own set of social stigmas when it comes to dealing with mental health issues. Myths and superstitions get in the way of proper diagnosis and treatment. Creating awareness through campaigns to all people of all ages, introducing mental health issue awareness in school curriculums, and breaking the myths surrounding mental health treatment can help tackle this challenge to a large extent.

Better connectivity

India is a developing country and is only slowly pacing towards a fully networked society. Creating better connections is a slow process, but one that can create significant changes. With better connectivity, mental health services can reach remote areas and persons with restrictions on mobility.

Digital literacy

India’s statistics on digital literacy, as mentioned above, are bleak. While there are a lot of mobile phone users as per the statistics, not many may be literate on anything beyond the basic functionalities. Inculcating proper digital literacy into the school curriculum, and through social channels to reach the older crowd can help better the digital literacy rate. Updating to smartphones is also important to avail advanced services of telemental health.

Telemedicine App Development for Telemental Health

Telemedicine applications are software built especially for dispersing virtual medical care. It is a multifaceted application that is intended for multiple types of users. It has particular interfaces for patients, doctors, healthcare staff, pharmaceuticals, and administrative staff. Each interface has its functionalities, all of which when working in tandem provide a seamless user experience.

The telemedicine app or doctor appointment booking app has features like AI-powered automation which enables chatbots and other day-to-day activities. Data analytics and business intelligence provide valuable insights that can help make informed decisions. ERP capabilities in the telemedicine app help with management and business activities. When built to the specific need of a healthcare facility, a telemedicine app can become a powerful platform for virtual medical care.

Final Words

Building a telemedicine app is a significant business step. The ideal telemedicine app development company will provide the necessary features for your specific need, 24*7 SLA customer support, and will have experience and proven mettle with a seasoned team of experts.

EMed HealthTech is a leading name in providing scalable, cost-effective, and customized telemedicine app development services for healthcare facilities of all sizes. Our healthcare apps have a proven track record of optimizing operations. Talk to us today about your telemedicine app development needs.

Top-5-Reasons-to-Develop-A-Telemedicine-App

Top 10 Reasons to Develop a Telemedicine App

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

The concept of telemedicine apps has been around for a long time. The COVID pandemic forced us to resort to telemedicine out of the restrictions imposed on movement. It has highlighted the need to integrate a functional telemedicine system that runs alongside regular healthcare.

Connecting patients and healthcare providers via technology are being increasingly implemented worldwide post COVID. The onset of COVID also warmed up the users to the benefits of telemedicine. Post-COVID, there has been a stark increase in the number of virtual consultations via doctor appointment booking apps. Studies show that there has been a triple increase in the investment made to telemedicine in 2020 than it had in 2017.

It is an area that has the potential to change the way we see medical care. Here is all you need to know about telemedicine, its implementation via telemedicine app, why you should invest in it, and the challenges faced in the process.

What is a Telemedicine App?

telemedicine

A telemedicine app is a software that functions as a platform to avail various healthcare services. It serves the patients to determine the nature of their ailment, find the apt healthcare provider, and provide virtual consultation, and follow-ups. It is also an avenue to cater to pharmaceutical needs, and avail services of testing and lab facilities.

Telemedicine apps also provide the platform for healthcare providers to connect to patients, organize data and schedules, manage visits, and more.

It is a holistic platform that has a wide range of functions. When developed properly, telemedicine software can create the ideal network of healthcare providers and patients. The healthcare industry is adopting this technology to enmesh its services with the needs of the day.

If COVID showed us telemedicine was indispensable, we are making a stronger case for it. Here are some very compelling reasons why you should be investing in a telemedicine app today

1. Better access to healthcare: Healthcare has often been inaccessible to people who live in rural areas. Sometimes a specialist we need is not available in a country. This challenge of distance and access is neutralized when there is a virtual set-up that enables the meeting of people from whichever corner of the world.

2. Maintain social distance: This is the first and foremost reason telemedicine was popular during the COVID pandemic. It serves the purpose later too, as contagious diseases will spread less when more and more people opt for virtual consultations.

3. Steady care for chronic health issues: Patients who battle chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart diseases, or lifestyle diseases need not travel to the doctor for every consultation. A virtual care system enables the patient to stay in the comfort of their home.

4. Reduces patient waiting time: Access to healthcare is hindered majorly by waiting time. The availability of doctors in a particular area, the number of patients seeking the same doctor, and the lack of a proper system in place contribute to the cause of the patient.

5. Lower treatment costs: The cost of the treatment is seen to be significantly lower when it comes to virtual care. This applies to both the hospital and the patient. The hospital could save up to $24 per patient and the patient saved an average of $50 in travel expenses, a study showed.

6. Gain an edge over competitors: The telemedicine system allows healthcare providers to have an advantage over their competitors who have not adopted the technology. It also gives them access to patients who would choose a remote consultation over being physically present for one.

7. Save infrastructure costs: The first advantage of a virtual care system is to be free of infrastructure costs. Compared to the hefty architectural investment required, a telemedicine app development costs significantly less. This automatically makes healthcare more affordable.

8. Balances the doctor-patient ratio: One of the biggest advantages of telemedicine is how it negates geographical barriers to bringing services to customers. While a particular place may be constrained due to the lack of doctors in proportion to patients, another place may have an abundance.

9. Access to healthcare during epidemics/disasters: Telemedicine proved to be the best option to cater to the healthcare industry during the COVID pandemic. If this proves anything, it is that telemedicine is the most effective form of providing medical service during times of such crisis.

10. The advantage of technology: A telemedicine system puts the doctor and patient in a position where they can use technology to their benefit. For example, the doctor can refer to biometric readings taken from wearable techs to monitor the health of the patient.

To know more about how to develop telemedicine apps check out this link.

Telemedicine App Development Challenges

The world of telemedicine is a sophisticated one that focuses on making accessibility easier. However, it is not one without challenges. It has its unique challenges. Here are some of them.

features-telemedicine

1. Glitch-free UI/UX: The healthcare industry has no room for error as it could prove even fatal. A telemedicine app has to remain glitch-free and very user-friendly. The patient and the doctor must be able to navigate the app with the least difficulty.

2. Two separate apps: A telemedicine app has two significant users – the doctors and the patients. Both users have different apps. These call for two separate fronts that are integrated seamlessly.

3. iOS and Android Native Apps: Telemedicine apps must be designed to be compatible with iOS and Android OSes. This requires a larger development team.

4. Data Security: The data shared via a telemedicine app is sensitive and confidential. It requires high-level security from being leaked by hackers.

Take Advantage of High-Quality Telemedicine App Development

Creating a telemedicine app has its benefits and small challenges. But in the end, it benefits all. It creates a world of equal access and opportunity. If you are convinced that you need to create an impeccably designed telemedicine app, look no further than EMed HealthTech.

At EMed HealthTech, we deliver quality healthcare software services and solutions to all your needs, garnering the trust of the healthcare industry. Choose EMed HealthTech for your telemedicine app development services. Reach out to us today for a custom quote.

 

Online Pharmacy Service: Benefits of Building Pharmacy App & Website

Online Pharmacy Service: Benefits of Building Pharmacy App & Website

Posted on | by Ami Kothari

Online Pharmacy Service: Benefits of Building Your Online Pharmacy App & Website

The pandemic has forced almost all services to find a presence or migrate permanently to the online space to ensure their survival. While becoming a preferred way for customers to shop, it is also profitable for sellers. This is true for businesses in many sectors, including healthcare. Online pharmacies are on the rise and proving to be a financially lucrative model for healthcare companies. A recent market study estimates that online pharmacies will generate a revenue of around USD 210.35 Billion by 2028.

If you’re thinking about building an online pharmacy app, this article is just for you. Read on to learn more about the potential of online pharmacy apps, their applications, and their development.

 

Why Do Pharmacies Need an App?

With the global pandemic shifting consumer patterns, a large source of pharmaceutical revenue has shifted to an online presence. However, with the potential to integrate more than just a medicine delivery system, online pharmacy services are competing to create a personalized user experience.

With an application online, a pharmacy can potentially integrate a lot of creative aspects into it, thus increasing sales and retaining customers. Some of them are:

  1. Give detailed information on the medicine order, its side effects, and dosage.
  2. Online consultation with specialized doctors.
  3. Personalized sessions with certified pharmacists.
  4. Technical solutions to find alternatives to the medicine order.
  5. Personalized setting to remind daily medicine intake.
  6. Alerts when incompatible medicines are bought together.
  7. Customized plans for continued purchases.

Bringing in these features and more innovative ideas are winning over more customers and bolting pharmacies to top positions in the market. These are proof enough that the pharmaceutical industry stands to gain from the online market.

Benefits of Having a Pharmacy App/Website

Here is a quick look at some of the perks of having an online application and/or website for your pharmacy.

  1. Low initial investments: An online presence means you can cut down on offline expenses like rent for the premises. It can also be run on minimal staff. The initial costs will however include developing a functional application.
  2. Low Risk, faster turnover: The risk associated with an online pharmacy is low compared to an offline pharmacy. You can also convert your physical space into a storage facility and use it to run a larger online presence.
  3. Consistent sales and customer retention: Unlike your brick-and-mortar pharmacy, your e-pharmacy is available 24×7. It caters to an extremely larger crowd than your physical pharmacy can afford. Hence you can expect, of course, decent marketing, and a steady and consistent sale. With personalized discounts and packages, you can also make sure you have higher customer retention.

Now, let’s talk about how to build a SaaS ePharmacy software, its features, and possible rewards for business owners.

 

How To Start An Online Pharmacy?

One cannot emphasize enough the importance of a customer-friendly user interface when it comes to online pharmacy app development. In other words, the app should be easy enough for even less tech-savvy customers to navigate and use.

Before you add various features to your app or website, it is important to have an idea of the basic flow of the ordering and delivery process. Here’s a checklist to follow:

  1. Searchbar – to find the medicine or its alternative
  2. Verification – the app/website can verify medicine order if necessary
  3. Cart – A cart is prepared to add medicines before checkout
  4. Order placement – users can order the products and choose the ideal shipping option.
  5. Payment gateway – a secure payment method featuring all payment methods.

The Core Features of an Online Pharmacy App

The core features of the application or website should cover all of the above processes and more. Here is a detailed look at the various core features that should feature in your website to make it functional.

  1. Exhaustive product catalog

Your online application should feature an exhaustive list of all your products, their availability, and details. This allows the customer to choose from similar products based on price or discounts. They can also track medicines that are out of stock, track orders, and make payments through trusted portals.

     2. Loyalty programs for regulars

A loyalty program or a discount card functions much the same way online as it is offline. But the chances of it being redeemed are higher in an online facility. Such options make sure customers come back again.

     3. Smart detections and QR scanning

It is easier for customers to simply scan the QR of a particular product or take a picture to check availability. Such systems help the customer find the medicine or its closest alternative.

    4. Customized deals and discounts

With a good marketing strategy, your online pharmacy can give customized deals and discounts to customers to increase customer retention. Special packages can be developed that take into account subscription model purchases.

     5. Feedback and testimonials

Genuine feedback can help improve customer service. Reviews and testimonials improve sales and increase the level of trust. Having a dedicated feedback section ensures building a relationship with the customer.

     6. Online Assistance

If the customer is unable to make a decision, there must be assistance provided on-site to guide them. A certified pharmacist can help customers make the right decision regarding choosing medicines.

      7. Connecting to offline stores

Linking your customers to your offline stores to redeem benefits will increase your customer retention at both online and offline stores. Having automatic location detection and clear instructions to reach your offline facility ensures you have a steady inflow of customers.

 

Final Thought

Like any industry that has created an online presence, the pharmacy stands to benefit too. It is a long-term investment and one that is going to cost you much less than you would anticipate in running a full-fledged offline store. The major expenses that you are bound to face are the ones required for web developing or application development. Once that is out of the way you can easily run your business without any hassles.

If you’re planning to build a medicine delivery app to expand your business, this is an opportune time to do it. Consult our team of online pharmacy app development experts to get started today!