Developing a Healthcare App like MedScape – Cost and Features

These days, more and more people are focused on their health and well-being. They’re looking for ways to manage their health more easily, whether it’s tracking symptoms, getting reliable health info, or staying connected with doctors. Healthcare apps like MedScape have become super helpful tools to meet these needs. These apps offer a simple, accessible way to manage health details, stay in touch with healthcare providers, and boost overall wellness. From tracking vital signs and medications to scheduling appointments, finding medical professionals, and getting personalized health advice, these apps do it all.

The healthcare app market is taking off, with the global mHealth apps market projected to reach USD 154.12 billion by 2034, growing steadily at 15.2% from 2024 to 2034. It’s exciting to see how many people are using these apps to improve their healthcare experience. This opens up a fantastic opportunity for businesses to jump into this thriving market!

With all the buzz around healthcare apps, it’s no surprise we’re seeing a surge of new ones in the US market. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating a healthcare app like MedScape. We’ll cover the essential features, design tips, the tech behind it, and the best practices to follow. Let’s dive in!

Key Market Takeaways for Healthcare Apps

According to PrecedenceResearch, the healthcare apps market is experiencing significant growth, projected to expand from USD 37.44 billion in 2024 to approximately USD 154.12 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 15.2%. 

Source: PrecedenceResearch

A lot of interesting factors are fueling the rapid growth of the healthcare app market, impacting both consumer habits and business approaches. The rise in chronic illnesses, alongside an increased focus on health and wellness, is improving the demand for mHealth apps. In response, companies are creating innovative solutions that offer personalized health management tools, allowing users to monitor their conditions, access medical resources, and communicate with healthcare professionals more efficiently. Additionally, the widespread use of smartphones and ongoing advancements in mobile technology have made healthcare apps more widely accessible.

In January 2021, Google acquired Fitbit, a leading health and fitness app, for $2.1 billion. This move aimed to make health and wellness more accessible to people by integrating Fitbit’s popular app with Google’s vast resources and user base. Moreover, in November 2022, Hartford HealthCare entered a long-term partnership with Google Cloud to advance its healthcare system. 

Overview of  MedScape App

Medscape is a healthcare application developed by WebMD Health Corp., initially launched in 2011 for iPad and Android devices, building on the original Medscape website that debuted in 1995. The app serves as a vital resource for healthcare professionals, offering access to medical news, drug information, clinical tools, and CME resources. As of now, Medscape has over 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store, boasting a rating of 4.8 stars, reflecting its popularity and reliability among users. The app has established partnerships with various esteemed organizations, including the American College of Cardiology and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enhancing its credibility and the quality of content available to its users.

What Makes the MedScape App Unique?

The Medscape app is unique in the medical resource landscape due to its extensive range of specialized features designed to support healthcare professionals. O

Drug Reference

• Comprehensive Database: Includes information on over 7,100 prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Detailed Information: Provides dosing guidelines, images, and other relevant data.

Drug Interaction Checker

• Assessment of Interactions: Quickly identifies potential interactions between multiple drugs, supplements, and herbals.
• Patient Safety: Helps prevent adverse drug reactions.

Clinical Tools

• Over 100 Calculators: Offers a variety of calculators to assist in clinical decision-making.
• Real-Time Data: Provides accurate calculations based on current information.

CME & Education

• Vast Library of Courses: Offers accredited continuing medical education courses in over 30 specialties.
• Professional Development: Supports ongoing learning and growth.

News & Perspective

• Breaking Medical News: Keeps users informed about the latest developments in the medical field.
• Expert Commentary: Provides insights and analysis from medical professionals.

As more healthcare professionals seek efficient, reliable, and comprehensive tools to support their practice, the demand for apps like Medscape continues to grow. 

Why Do People Love the MedScape App?

• Comprehensive Resource: Provides a vast array of medical information and tools.
• Time-Saving: Streamlines clinical workflows and saves time.
• Evidence-Based: Offers reliable and up-to-date information.
• Continuous Learning: Supports professional development through CME courses.

Companies recognize the potential for revenue generation through these applications by providing valuable resources that enhance clinical practice while also offering opportunities for partnerships, advertising, and premium content.

Understanding the Business Model of MedScape

Medscape operates on a multifaceted business model that includes advertising, sponsorships, and premium content, with specific revenue streams and potential subscription fees.

Advertising and Sponsorships

• Medscape generates significant revenue through advertising targeted at healthcare professionals, particularly from pharmaceutical and medical device companies.
• Sponsored content and educational materials are also a key revenue source, allowing companies to promote their products and services directly to Medscape’s audience.

Premium Content and Services

• While Medscape membership is free, it offers premium content and services that can range from $1.99 to $209.95 for specific resources and tools, such as specialized medical references and advanced clinical tools.
• This pricing structure allows users to access in-depth resources tailored to their professional needs, contributing to Medscape’s revenue..

Other Revenue Streams

• Medscape may also engage in partnerships and licensing agreements, providing its content and tools to other healthcare organizations and platforms.
• The platform’s CME activities serve as both a valuable resource for healthcare professionals and a potential revenue stream through partnerships with educational institutions.

How Are Health Apps Regulated?

Health apps are regulated primarily to ensure user safety and privacy. In the U.S., the FDA oversees apps that are classified as medical devices, which are defined as those intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases. Apps that pose low risk, such as those for general wellness or fitness tracking, typically do not require FDA regulation.

Regulatory classifications include:

• Class I: Low-risk apps, generally exempt from FDA review.
• Class II: Moderate-risk apps requiring premarket notification to demonstrate substantial equivalence to existing devices.
• Class III: High-risk apps needing extensive premarket approval.

Additionally, the FTC enforces truth in advertising for all health apps, ensuring claims made by developers are substantiated. Regulations aim to protect consumer privacy, prevent misleading claims, and ensure the efficacy of health-related functionalities.

Specific Examples of Healthcare Apps Classified as Class III Devices

Specific examples of healthcare apps classified as Class III medical devices include:

1. Contraceptive Apps: Certain apps designed for contraception are classified as Class III devices due to their significant implications for health and pregnancy prevention. They follow specific regulatory rules that elevate their risk classification.
2. Mortality Risk Prediction Apps: An app that predicts three-month mortality risk in patients with chronic liver disease has been classified as a Class III medical device, as it is used for prioritizing organ allocation for liver transplantation.

These classifications indicate that these apps are subject to stringent regulatory oversight due to their potential impact on patient health.

Must have Key Features of a Healthcare App like MedScape

To thrive in the competitive healthcare app market, developers must prioritize features that address the specific needs of healthcare professionals. The following five features are crucial for building a successful app similar to Medscape:

1. Comprehensive Medical News 

A robust medical news section is essential for keeping healthcare providers updated on the latest advancements, research, and industry trends. By curating relevant news and insights, apps can position themselves as valuable resources for staying informed.

2. Extensive Drug Database 

A comprehensive drug database is a cornerstone of any successful healthcare app. It should provide detailed information on prescription and over-the-counter medications, including dosages, side effects, interactions, and clinical trials. This feature is invaluable for clinicians in making informed treatment decisions.

3. In-depth Disease Information

A well-organized disease information section should offer detailed descriptions of various diseases and conditions, covering symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis. This feature helps healthcare providers understand the complexities of different illnesses and develop effective treatment plans.

4. Practical Medical Calculators 

Medical calculators are essential tools for healthcare professionals, aiding in calculations related to dosage, treatment, and other clinical tasks. By incorporating a variety of calculators, apps can streamline workflows and improve accuracy.

5. Continuing Medical Education Resources 

Offering CME activities is a strategic move to attract and retain healthcare professionals. By providing access to accredited courses and educational content, apps can help clinicians stay up-to-date with their knowledge and skills, ultimately benefiting their patients.

Innovative Features That Can Enhance a Healthcare App Like MedScape

To differentiate themselves in the competitive healthcare app market, companies can explore innovative features beyond the traditional offerings. Here are seven such features that can enhance a healthcare app like Medscape:

1. AI-Powered Symptom Checker

Integrating an AI-powered symptom checker can provide users with initial assessments and potential diagnoses, saving time and potentially preventing unnecessary medical visits.

2. Virtual Consultations

Offering virtual consultation features allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing wait times and improving accessibility, especially in rural or underserved areas.

3. Medication Reminders and Tracking

A medication reminder and tracking feature can help patients adhere to their treatment plans and reduce the risk of medication errors.

4. Personalized Health Plans

Creating personalized health plans based on individual needs, goals, and medical history can empower patients to take an active role in their healthcare.

5. Integration with Wearable Devices

Integrating with wearable devices can provide valuable health data, such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and also activity levels, enabling more comprehensive health monitoring.

6. Patient Education Videos

Providing educational videos on various health topics can help patients get a better understanding of their conditions, treatment options, and preventative measures.

7. Social Networking for Patients

Creating a social networking platform for patients can create a sense of community, support, and shared experiences, enhancing the overall healthcare experience.

Development Steps for a Healthcare App like MedScape

Here are the essential steps to develop a healthcare app like MedScape,

1. Deep Dive into Medical Terminology and Regulations

To develop a healthcare app, understanding medical terminology and regulations is crucial. The app must accurately use medical terms and concepts to ensure clarity and reliability. It’s also quite important to be compliant with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA and GDPR to protect user data and ensure legal operation.

3. Partner with Medical Experts

Collaborating with doctors and nurses helps refine the app’s content and features. Their insights are invaluable for addressing user needs and ensuring the app’s medical accuracy. Regular validation of content with medical professionals guarantees that the information provided is reliable and up-to-date.

4. Integrate with Electronic Health Records

Seamless integration with EHRs is a key component of healthcare apps. The app should enable data sharing with popular EHR systems while ensuring secure data transfer. Using encryption and authentication measures protects patient data and maintains confidentiality.

5. Offer Personalized Content

Personalization enhances user experience. By employing algorithms, the app can recommend relevant news, articles, and Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses based on user preferences. 

6. Develop a Robust Drug Database

A comprehensive drug database is essential for a healthcare app. The app should provide up-to-date information on drug dosages, side effects, and interactions. User-friendly search functions facilitate quick access to drug information, supporting informed medical decisions.

7. Incorporate Medical Calculators and Tools

Integrating medical calculators and tools adds functionality to the app. Tools for dosage calculations, BMI calculations, and other medical parameters are beneficial. Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of these tools through validation with medical experts is vital for maintaining trust.

8. Offer CME and Continuing Education

Providing Continuing Medical Education (CME) opportunities is an important feature. Partnering with accredited medical institutions allows the app to offer CME courses. Tracking user progress and issuing certificates upon completion supports professional development.

9. Facilitate Collaboration and Networking

Creating forums and communities within the app fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals. Users can connect, discuss medical topics, and share experiences. Integration with existing medical social networks further enhances networking opportunities.

Cost of Developing a Healthcare App like MedScape

Component	Cost Range	Scope
Research and Planning	$1,000 – $5,000	– Market Research: Basic analysis of competitors and target audience.- Feature Prioritization: Identifying essential features.- Regulatory Compliance: Basic compliance with HIPAA and GDPR.
Front-End Development	$5,000 – $20,000	– UI Design: Simple, intuitive, and visually appealing interface.- UX Design: Basic user flow and interactions.- Development: Building the app for iOS or Android, or a simplified cross-platform version.
Back-End Development	$5,000 – $20,000	– Database Design: Simple database for managing user data.- API Development: Basic APIs for communication between front-end and back-end.- Server Infrastructure: Basic server setup for hosting the app and data.
App Features	$3,000 – $15,000 per feature	– Medical News and Articles: $3,000 – $10,000- Drug Information Database: $5,000 – $15,000- Disease Information: $3,000 – $10,000- Medical Calculators: $2,000 – $7,000- Telehealth Integration: $5,000 – $15,000
Testing and Quality Assurance	$2,000 – $7,000	– Manual Testing: Testing across devices.- Automated Testing: Basic bug detection tools.- Security Testing: Ensuring basic security standards are met.
UI/UX Design	$2,000 – $7,000	– Wireframing: Creating simple layouts.- Prototyping: Testing interactions with a small user group.- Design Iterations: Making small improvements based on feedback.
Overall Cost Estimate	$10,000 – $100,000	Total cost depends on the complexity of features, platform, and development approach.

Here are four factors that are specifically relevant to developing a healthcare app like MedScape:

Integration with Medical Databases

Healthcare apps often rely on extensive medical databases to provide accurate and up-to-date information. Integrating with reputable medical databases can require licensing fees and technical expertise.

Compliance with Healthcare Regulations

Healthcare apps must adhere to strict regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA in the United States. Ensuring compliance can involve significant legal and technical efforts.

Data Privacy and Security

Healthcare apps handle sensitive patient data, which requires robust security measures to protect against breaches and unauthorized access. Implementing strong security protocols can increase development costs.

Medical Review and Validation

Healthcare apps, especially those providing medical advice or information, often require review and validation by medical professionals. This process can be time-consuming and may involve additional costs.

Tech Stacks Required to Develop a Healthcare App like MedScape

Developing a sophisticated healthcare app requires a diverse set of technologies and frameworks to ensure effective functionality and user experience.

1. Healthcare-Specific Machine Learning Frameworks

For developing healthcare apps, machine learning frameworks are crucial. TensorFlow Lite and Caffe2 are popular choices for implementing machine learning on mobile and embedded devices. TensorFlow Lite offers a lightweight version of TensorFlow, optimized for performance on mobile devices. 

2. FHIR-Based Frameworks

Integrating with healthcare data standards is essential for interoperability. The FHIR Server and FHIR Client play pivotal roles here. A FHIR Server implements the FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) standard, allowing for the secure storage and retrieval of healthcare data. 

3. Electronic Health Record Integration

Connecting with existing EHR systems is a key aspect of developing healthcare apps. EHR APIs provide integration capabilities with major EHR systems such as Epic, Cerner, and Allscripts. These APIs facilitate the smooth transfer of health records between the app and these systems. 

4. Healthcare Data Analytics

Analyzing healthcare data requires robust analytics frameworks. Hadoop is a framework designed for processing and analyzing large datasets, which is crucial for handling extensive health data. Spark is another powerful tool that offers fast and general-purpose cluster computing, enhancing the app’s ability to perform complex data analyses quickly.

5. Medical Image Processing

For apps that handle medical imaging, OpenCV and ITK (Insight Toolkit) are essential. OpenCV is a basic library for image processing tasks, widely used for developing image analysis applications. ITK is also an open-source toolkit specializing in image analysis and registration, providing advanced functionalities for medical image processing.

6. Telehealth and Video Conferencing

Incorporating telehealth features requires integrating video conferencing technologies. WebRTC enables real-time communication over the web, facilitating video calls and live consultations. The Zoom SDK offers a software development kit for embedding Zoom’s video conferencing capabilities directly into the healthcare app, enhancing remote patient interactions.

7. Health Data Encryption

Protecting sensitive healthcare data is critical. AES is a widely adopted encryption algorithm for securing data. TLS ensures secure communication over the internet, safeguarding data transmission between the app and users.

8. Healthcare-Specific Cloud Platforms

Utilizing cloud platforms designed for healthcare data management enhances app functionality. AWS HealthLake provides a HIPAA-compliant cloud service for storing and analyzing healthcare data. Google Cloud Healthcare API offers a suite of APIs for interacting with healthcare data and systems, supporting scalable and secure data management.

9. Mobile Health Frameworks

For apps targeting mobile health, frameworks like ResearchKit and WearOS are valuable. ResearchKit is tailored for building research-focused apps on iOS, while WearOS supports the development of apps for smartwatches running on Wear OS, extending health-tracking capabilities to wearable devices.

Trending Technologies Concepts That Can Enhance a Healthcare App Like Medscape

Mobile applications like MedScape are playing an increasingly important role in providing medical professionals with quick access to vital information. To stay ahead of the curve, healthcare app developers should consider incorporating the following three unique technology concepts to enhance user experience and functionality:

1. AR for Visualizing Medical Procedures

Augmented reality has the potential to revolutionize medical education and training by allowing healthcare professionals to visualize complex procedures in 3D. By integrating AR technology into healthcare apps, companies can create interactive simulations that help users better understand anatomy, practice surgical techniques, and prepare for real-world scenarios.

For example, the HoloAnatomy app utilizes Microsoft’s AR technology to transform how medical students learn about human anatomy. This app offers a fully interactive experience, enabling students to collaborate and engage with 3D models of the human body, which enhances their understanding and retention of complex anatomical information. 

2. AI for Personalized Treatment Recommendations

Artificial intelligence is poised to transform healthcare by offering personalized treatment plans tailored to a patient’s specific medical history, genetic profile, and lifestyle. By incorporating AI algorithms into healthcare applications, companies can assist healthcare experts in making more accurate decisions, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

For instance, AI-driven platforms can analyze a patient’s electronic health records and genetic data to identify potential health risks and recommend preventive measures. IBM Watson Health is a notable example, as it uses AI to assist oncologists in determining the best treatment plans for cancer patients by analyzing vast amounts of patient data.

3. Blockchain for Secure Data Sharing

As healthcare data becomes increasingly digital, the need for secure data sharing has never been greater. Blockchain technology offers a decentralized alternative to store and share medical records, ensuring that patient information remains private and tamper-proof.

By incorporating blockchain into healthcare apps, companies can build trust with users and comply with strict data privacy regulations. 

For example, Guardtime has developed a blockchain-based solution that helps healthcare providers secure patient data and ensure its integrity. This technology allows patients to control who has access to their information, fostering transparency and security. Such innovations can help businesses differentiate themselves from competitors and build long-term relationships with healthcare professionals and patients.

Conclusion

Healthcare apps like MedScape can help people manage their health by giving them information, advice, and tools. This can help people understand their health better and get help sooner. Businesses can benefit from developing a healthcare app by making money through things like in-app purchases or partnerships. This can help the business grow and become known as a trusted source of health information.

Looking to Develop a Healthcare App Like MedScape?

Leverage our expertise to build a cutting-edge healthcare app like MedScape. With over 500,000 hours of coding experience in the field, our team can develop a robust and user-friendly platform that empowers patients and healthcare providers. From integrating medical databases to implementing advanced AI algorithms for symptom assessment, we offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs. Let us help you revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.

FAQs

Q1: How to develop a healthcare app?

A1: Developing a successful healthcare app requires a combination of technical expertise, market understanding, and a focus on user experience. By carefully considering these factors and following a structured development process, businesses can create valuable tools that improve patient outcomes.

Q2: How do healthcare apps make money?

A2: Healthcare apps can generate revenue through various monetization strategies. Common methods include in-app purchases (e.g., premium features, content, or subscriptions), advertising (e.g., banner ads, sponsored content), partnerships with healthcare providers (e.g., referral fees, co-branded products), and direct sales of medical devices or products. The most effective monetization strategy will depend on the target audience, app features, and overall business goals. By carefully considering these factors, businesses can develop a sustainable revenue model for their healthcare app.

Q3: What are the features of healthcare apps?

A3: Healthcare apps can offer a nice range of features to cater to different user needs. Common features include symptom checkers, medication reminders, health record management, appointment scheduling, fitness tracking, telemedicine consultations, and access to medical information. Advanced features may involve AI-powered diagnostics, personalized health recommendations, and integration with wearable devices. The specific features included in a healthcare app will depend on its target audience, intended use cases, and the desired level of functionality.

Q4: How long does it take to develop a healthcare app?

A4: The development timeline can differ greatly depending on the app’s complexity, features, and the size of the development team. A simple app with basic functionalities might take several months, while a more comprehensive app with advanced features could require a year or longer. It’s essential to consider the desired scope, target audience, and available resources when estimating the development time. By carefully planning and prioritizing features, businesses can streamline the development process and accelerate time-to-market.