
How to Build and Pilot a Clinical App
David Hollick • January 12, 2025
Learn how to create a clinical app to streamline healthcare delivery. This guide covers defining goals, development, testing, implementation, and leveraging emerging technologies for patient care improvement.
How to Build and Pilot a Clinical App
Creating a clinical app can revolutionize healthcare delivery by streamlining operations, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing communication. However, turning your concept into a reality requires careful planning, collaboration, and execution. This guide outlines clear, practical steps to help you build and pilot a clinical app, from development to implementation.
Step 1: Development
Define the App's Purpose and Requirements
The first step in creating a clinical app is defining its purpose, features, and intended users. Ask yourself:
- What problem does the app solve? Is it for appointment booking, telemedicine, e-prescriptions, or something else?
- Who will use it? Will it serve clinicians, patients, or both?
Key Features to Consider:
- Appointment Booking: Allow patients to easily book, reschedule, or cancel appointments.
- Telemedicine: Enable secure video or audio consultations.
- E-Prescriptions: Let clinicians send prescriptions directly to pharmacies.
- Health Tracking: Integrate wearable devices to monitor vitals like heart rate and glucose levels.
- Educational Content: Provide useful resources such as articles, videos, or FAQs.
Collaborate with Stakeholders: Engage end-users—clinicians, nurses, and patients—to ensure the app addresses real-world needs and encourages adoption.
Choose the Right Technology Stack:
- Backend: Use frameworks like Django or ASP.NET Core.
- Frontend: Consider React Native for cross-platform compatibility.
- Database: Opt for cloud-based solutions like AWS RDS or Azure SQL.
- APIs: Integrate healthcare standards like HL7 FHIR for compatibility with electronic health records (EHRs).
Design and Development
Adopt a User-Centered Design Approach: Put users first by understanding their workflows and preferences. Create user personas to guide the design process.
Develop Prototypes: Use tools like Figma or Adobe XD to create prototypes and gather feedback early on.
Build a Multidisciplinary Team: Include:
- Software developers
- UX/UI designers
- Clinical advisors
- Data security experts
Ensure Security and Compliance: Follow regulations like HIPAA (USA) or GDPR (EU) to protect user data. Implement features like:
- Encrypted data storage
- Role-based access control
- Multifactor authentication
Adopt Agile Methodologies: Break development into sprints for iterative testing and feedback.
Focus on Interoperability: Ensure the app integrates smoothly with existing systems, such as EHRs, lab systems, and pharmacy software.
Step 2: Testing
Pilot Testing
Testing in a real-world setting is essential for identifying issues.
Start with a Soft Launch: Deploy the app in one clinic or department. This approach minimizes risks and allows for focused troubleshooting.
Evaluate Technical Performance: Test:
- Speed and responsiveness
- Server reliability
- Scalability under heavy use
Observe Workflow Integration: Ensure the app fits seamlessly into daily operations. Does it reduce redundancies? Does it save time for staff?
Collect Feedback: Engage clinicians, administrative staff, and patients through surveys and interviews to identify pain points.
Usability and Efficacy Testing
Check Content Accuracy: Ensure any educational materials or clinical information in the app are accurate and relevant.
Test Usability: Make sure the app is intuitive. Methods include:
- Task Analysis: Watch users complete tasks like booking an appointment.
- Heatmaps: Use tools like Hotjar to identify usability issues.
Measure Efficacy: Assess the app’s clinical impact. For example:
- Does telemedicine reduce no-show rates?
- Are patients adhering to treatment plans better due to reminders?
Seek Regulatory Approval: If necessary, submit the app for certification by regulatory bodies like the FDA (USA) or MHRA (UK).
Step 3: Implementation
Gather Feedback and Iterate
After testing, use the feedback to make refinements.
Post-Pilot Improvements: Address issues such as:
- Fixing bugs
- Adding requested features (e.g., dark mode for readability)
Train Users: Provide training for staff and offer resources like user manuals and video tutorials.
Expand Gradually
Roll out the app slowly to minimize disruptions.
Scale Up Incrementally: Start with a few clinics, then expand regionally or system-wide.
Monitor Performance: Track key metrics such as:
- User adoption rates
- System reliability
- Clinical outcome improvements
Provide Ongoing Support: Establish a dedicated team to address technical issues and user concerns.
Promote Awareness: Use marketing campaigns and success stories to encourage wider adoption.
Beyond Implementation
Prioritize Data Privacy and Security
Regularly update security measures and conduct audits to stay compliant with evolving regulations.
Continuously Improve
Use long-term feedback to plan future updates. Add new features or refine existing ones based on user needs.
Evaluate Impact
Measure the app’s success in improving workflows, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes. Publish results to showcase its value.