App Reviewed: DrugInfoLine (Ver. 2.0)
Goals of Review:
- Identify features of app that keep users informed on medications
- Determine functionality of app for users to communicate information with colleagues
Introduction:
The American Pharmacist Association (APhA) is one of several major pharmacy organizations dedicated towards the development of overall pharmacy practice.
APhA also keeps its members informed about major advancements and changes in medications.
They have created an app, based off of their current DrugInfoLine, to help members keep updated on drug developments and oversight. This information can be used to change practices as required.
Information in the app is updated weekly. It takes into account FDA actions, as posted on their main site.
In addition, information is also included that deals with multiple specialties (e.g. cardiology, nephrology) with a focus on chronic diseases. Guidelines are routinely updated to keep users familiar with major clinical changes.
User Interface:
The app opens up with a simple user interface with several options. The options include: Home, Sections, Med Monitor, Search, and More. On the default Home screen, users see all updates in a chronological list from the DrugInfoLine.
Selecting an article brings the user to the article. The information is broken into sections covering Key Points on the topic, Finer Points for more detailed information, What You Need To Know, and lastly, What Your Patients Need To Know.
Information is short and succinct, allowing quick on-the-go reading. Links are provided for readers to access more detailed information at their leisure.
However, for those that are not members of APhA, only Key Points is provided. Access to other sections of the article requires logging in with an APhA account from an active membership. Also, articles can only be emailed to others if they login.
The app can also be navigated via the Sections component. This area breaks down into specialties (e.g. ID/Cancers, GI/Kidneys).
Med Monitor is another section that details information on medications such as new drug/supplemental approvals, alerts and recalls, and also product withdrawals.
Lastly, it is possible to save articles, which is accessible via the More selection. A search tool is also available to look for articles or topics of concern.
Price:
- Free (Full features and articles only available with a membership with APhA)
Likes:
- Updated information pertinent to drugs within the US (e.g. clinical information, drug recalls)
- Information supplied from a dependable resource
Dislikes:
- Full features only available to members of APhA
- No social media integration (e.g. Facebook, Twitter)
Healthcare providers that would benefit from app:
- Pharmacists
- Physicians
- Nurses
Conclusion:
- APhA DrugInfoLine app is beneficial for users to keep updated on changes dealing with clinical utilization of medications, and recalls, occurring in the US.
- Pros: Information is updated weekly and pertinent recalls provided in hours of posting.
- Cons: Full features only available for APhA members. Lack of social media integration.
iMedicalApps recommended?
- Yes
Rating: 3.5/5
1. User Interface – 5
2. Multimedia usage – 2
3. Price – 3 (Full features need membership)
4. Real world applicability – 4
App Review Specifics:
Last Update: Feburary 23, 2012
Operating System: iOS 4.0 or later
Device Reviewed: iPhone 4
Disclaimer:
This post does not establish, nor is it intended to establish, a patient physician relationship with anyone. It does not substitute for professional advice, and does not substitute for an in-person evaluation with your health care provider. It does not provide the definitive statement on the subject addressed. Before using these apps please consult with your own physician or health care provider as to the apps validity and accuracy as this post is not intended to affirm the validity or accuracy of the apps in question. The app(s) mentioned in this post should not be used without discussing the app first with your health care provider.
