Healthcare App Development – The Ultimate Guide

Everything you need to know about mobile Healthcare App Development.

The primary goal of mobile applications is to make our daily lives easier. This stands true for healthcare or mHealth apps too. Healthcare apps aim at providing advanced and personalized healthcare to all their users.

An advanced healthcare app can help its users in innumerable ways. For example, it can help its users to analyze and maintain their fitness goals, medical conditions, health insurance claims, etc.

Furthermore, mHealthcare apps also help with appointments, telemedicine, online consultations, prescriptions, and much more. Advanced healthcare apps have helped people around the world to maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle. They have become an integral part of their lives.

Henceforth, the demand for such advanced and productive healthcare apps has also skyrocketed. A scalable healthcare app can bring substantial revenue to your business. It is a win-win situation for both users and the app owners. However, not all healthcare apps are successful in the market. It requires rich technical expertise and a deep medical understanding to develop one such app.

Ever wondered what it takes to develop an advanced healthcare app? Well, in this guide, we have provided our readers with all the details of healthcare app development. Keep on reading the blog to learn more about this process.

Why Develop a Healthcare App?

Potential Growth Possibilities of the Healthcare Industry.

With the advancement of wearable technology, the need for solid healthcare apps is increasing like never before. There is a high demand for healthcare-related apps in the market. One of the possible reasons for their massive popularity is the customized healthcare services they provide.

Similarly, these healthcare apps provide a more personalized experience to the users. Furthermore, many healthcare services are easily accessible through these apps with just a few taps on our mobile phones.

Especially since the pandemic, people are using their mobile phones today to run their daily chores more than ever before. Thus, healthcare app development is now more relevant than ever. 

Another key reason for the high demand for healthcare app development is due to the rise of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Doctors and healthcare providers all over the world are using digital health technologies to keep a check on such chronic diseases.

Medical IT solutions by app developers are in great demand because they can help doctors and patients worldwide have remote consultations, especially during these challenging times when the whole world is facing the Covid-19 crisis.

All the above-given factors and the advent of wearable technology have fueled the demand for a super-advanced and productive healthcare app.

Are Mobile Apps in the Healthcare Sector Profitable?

Yes! This is a very short and straightforward answer. Do not believe us? Keep on reading further to know more.

According to a survey, the total global mobile health market size is expected to reach nearly 100 billion USD in 2021 and over 300 billion by 2025. These numbers speak for themselves. These figures can easily anticipate the vastness of the mHealthcare development market.

Many entrepreneurs and investors are gradually turning toward this lucrative app development market for the healthcare sector to earn huge profits. Consequently, resulting in a rise in competition in this particular sector of the app development market.

Many companies are already earning huge profits by providing personalized healthcare services through apps. Furthermore, the healthcare app development market is thriving in the USA like never before. Henceforth, the future of the healthcare app development industry in the USA and the rest of the world seems to be very bright.

However, it takes a lot of time and effort to develop a solution-driven healthcare app. Thus, it is extremely important that you must pay attention to every aspect of healthcare software development. Make sure that your app is aiming at solving a healthcare problem. 

Furthermore, the app should be very easy to use with exciting graphics. It should not pose any difficulties to new users, especially senior citizens. Also, make sure that your app is engaging enough for its users. All this will enhance the performance of your healthcare app and bring in more consumers.

Everything You Need to Know About the Healthcare App Development

Let us go through each and every aspect of healthcare app development so that it can help you to develop the best healthcare app out there. However anyone can create an app, but not everyone’s app can get over 1 million downloads.

Thus, you need a team of the best developers with rich industrial expertise to excel in this sector. With Idea Usher, you can build the best healthcare app which will help you stand out from your competitors.

Now let us talk about the healthcare software development process without making you all wait anymore. To make it easier for our readers, we have simplified this process by breaking it into steps. Let us begin with the first step- 

Mobile Healthcare App Development – Steps to Consider

Step 1: Figuring out the Target Problem and Audience

The key to successful healthcare software development majorly depends upon the identification of the target problem and the audience facing the problem. One can never create a solution-driven healthcare app without first figuring out the problem.

Thus, identify the problem on which your app will be based. Also, figure out the audience facing that problem and then finally begin with your app development process. This will ensure that your mHealthcare app is result-driven and thus attracts a lot of new customers.

Step 2: Conduct In-depth Market Research and Know your Competitors

 According to a survey, as of the 4th quarter of 2020, there were 3.14 million apps on Google Playstore, making it the world’s largest app store. These numbers are enough to explain to you the vastness of this app market and how difficult it is to establish a successful app business.

Henceforth, it is crucial to understand the market statistics and how the market works. The only way to do this is by extensive research. You have to have solid knowledge about your target sector of the market, which in this case is the healthcare sector.

It is the same analogy as you can’t excel in the subjects you do not know about. Henceforth it is extremely important to research everything happening in the market right now related to your app’s niche.

Furthermore, there are so many challenges, and without prior knowledge of the market, you can never overcome them. Also, in-depth research will help you to know more about your competitors.  

Step 3: Determine the Target Platform

Now the next most important question that arises while someone is thinking of creating their app is whether they should build a Native or a Hybrid app. Well, the answer to this question is relatively simple. It majorly depends on your target platform.

A native app is designed specifically for mobile operating systems. At the same time, a Hybrid app is a web app built using HTML5 and Javascript. They are basically websites covered in a native wrapper. 

Figure out if your target platform is Android or Apple, or both. Furthermore, also figure out the demographics of your target audience. This will heavily affect your preferred platform.

Furthermore, figure out their socio-economic background, user orientation, etc. We know this sounds pretty daunting, but all this can be a cakewalk if you hire the right team of developers.

Step 4: Choose a Monetization Strategy

One should ensure that you have excellent monetization strategies for your business. It is incredibly crucial to have a stable source of income to keep your business running. There are various ways you can monetize your app, like- Running Third-party Ads on your app, In-app Purchases for add-on Features, and Flat Fees (granted at the time of app download). 

However, often the most common way of making money through healthcare apps is through subscriptions and in-app consultation fees. But then there are several other options like third-party ads and sponsorships, which can also help the business earn an additional income.

However, saying that most successful healthcare apps are always free. They make money by providing paid access to their premium account. This strategy has been so far highly successful for healthcare apps.

Step 5: Test your App

It is one of the most vital steps of any app development, specifically for healthcare app development. Rigorous app testing is the key to making a productive and efficient app. Additionally, ensure that your app is free of any bugs.

The only way to ensure this is by testing your healthcare app regularly. Henceforth, it is a very wise decision to hire a dedicated and experienced testing team for your application. This will enhance your app’s performance upto many folds.

Step 6: Advertise the App by making Solid PR Strategies

Forming solid marketing and PR strategies is the only way by which you can run a sustainable and growing healthcare app business. You can do so by hiring a team of marketing professionals to create excellent PR strategies for your mHealthcare app business. This will help you gain a huge customer base. 

Furthermore, ensure that you are highly active on all social media platforms. This way, you can easily promote your healthcare app to a large number of people at the same time. Consequently, bringing in more customers and revenue to your business.

Another great marketing strategy is providing discounts and promotional offers. This way, you can lure your customers into engaging more on your healthcare app. 

Different Types of Healthcare Apps that One Can Develop

There are numerous types of healthcare apps available for patients, doctors, and even for hospitals and other healthcare institutions. Here is our list of different types of healthcare apps for patients and doctors.

For Patients

1. Fitness and Wellness Apps

2. Schedule Appointments Apps

3. Meditation Apps

4. Telemedicine

5. Apps for Pregnant Women

6. Vital Signs Monitoring Apps, such as apps for blood pressure and pulse monitoring

7. Mental Health Apps

8. Calories Calculator Apps

9. App for Public Health Forums

10. Application for senior citizens and sick people

For Doctors and Healthcare Providers

1. Telemedicine

2. Apps for Online Consultations

3. Remote Monitoring Apps

4. App for Appointments Management

5. Educations apps to provide info about specific drugs and diseases

6. Resource Management Apps

For Institutions

1. Payments and Billing Apps

2. EMR and EHS accessible Clinical Assistant Apps

3. Appointment Scheduling Apps

4. Inventory Management Apps

So these are some of the different kinds of apps that are widely used in the healthcare sector today. Depending on your target audience, you can build any of the given apps. However, it is imperative to ensure that your app is solution driven and is successful in solving its concerned issue. 

Technology Trends in Mobile Healthcare Development

The advancement of wearable technology has a considerable impact on the healthcare sector. All the IT solutions for the healthcare sector focus on implementing the latest technology. This has created an uproar in the healthcare app development industry to create the best and most advanced healthcare solutions.

Patients, doctors, and even healthcare institutions are getting benefited from these technologically advanced app solutions. So In this segment of our blog, we will look at some of the latest technology trends in the healthcare application development industry. 

Let us begin!

Artificial intelligence (AI)

Numerous medical tasks such as CT scans, MRI, Disease diagnosing, ultrasounds, etc., already incorporate artificial intelligence to function effectively. Thus artificial intelligence is one of the most important technologies used by the healthcare sector.

Furthermore, app developers can use artificial intelligence to build AI-powered Chatbots for healthcare apps. These chatbots or digital assistants can help in collecting data from patients. They are of great use in healthcare software development. 

Have an interesting read about how chatbots can help us in fighting against Coronavirus.

Blockchain Development

Blockchain development in the healthcare sector can be used to maintain e-records. Similarly, blockchain technology can be implemented to conduct medical research, remote patient monitoring, efficient insurance and billing procedures, and analyze medical data. 

All these features will improve the working of a healthcare institution by making it more productive and efficient.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Next on our list of best technology trends in healthcare app development is IoT. The Internet of Things is widely used in many medical devices as sensors to monitor the patient’s condition. IoT-powered medical devices efficiently control the use of different medical equipment.

IoT has also gained a lot of popularity in many locations where healthcare is not very readily accessible to all. Thus telemedicine is their only option left to seek a doctor’s consultation. Via telemedicine, patients can seek remote consultations from their doctors.  

Have an exciting read about 9 Technology Solutions that are helping the healthcare industry to fight Covid-19 to know more about these technologies.

Key Attributes of a Successful Healthcare App

Let us have a look at some of the top features of a healthcare app. These features can make or break any healthcare app. Thus, make sure that you integrate these features into your mHealthcare app.

• Efficient Tracking:  Used by patients and doctors, this feature enables users to monitor their state of health either by themselves or by their physician.
• Easy Appointment Scheduling: Patients and Doctors use this feature to make appointments and manage them, respectively.
• Push notifications and reminders : 
• Multiple Payments Options: This feature enables users to pay their medical bills quickly and securely.
• Integration with wearables such as Apple Watch, Fitbit, etc.
• Personalized accounts for patients: A personalized account for patients helps them to get all the updates and information regarding their health very quickly and easily. It also helps them to get real-time notifications based on their account.
• Personalized account for Doctor’s Profile: This feature allows the users to quickly find the best doctor near their location by reviewing the doctor’s credentials.
• Telemedicine Accessibility: Remote consultation and diagnosing have become extremely popular in recent months due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. An app with real-time chat and video options will help the patients to connect with doctors and discuss their diagnoses and treatments.
• Security and privacy: A healthcare app should be on par with a financial app in maintaining the security and confidentiality of the patients.

Challenges Faced during Healthcare App Development

There are many challenges faced during healthcare application development. Some of these challenges are as follows –

• Security and Privacy of the Patients
• APIs and their successful Integration
• Data Encryption
• Multiple Devices and Channels 

Cost of Developing a Healthcare App

The development cost of only on-demand is often the most talked about topic. Similarly, it is also one of the most important things that you have to consider very thoughtfully. Thus, In this next segment of our blog, let us have a look at the cost of developing a healthcare app. 

However. The answer to this question is not very straightforward. We have to consider a lot of other factors to find out the actual cost of development. These factors include Geographical location, Target Platform(Android or iOS), Integrated Technologies, App Complexity, and App Design.

 Henceforth, developing an app in the USA or Europe is relatively higher than developing an app in any other part of the world. Similarly, if your target platform is both Android and Apple, the cost of development would be higher in that case.

This even stands true for the technology stack and your app design. To conclude, the more advanced features in the app, the more will be the cost of development. Apart from UI/UX designing and front and back-end development, testing tools also cost a fortune.

The cost of developing an app also depends on the fact that if it is a Native app or a Hybrid app. Want to know more about native and hybrid apps? And which is better for your business? Check out our detailed comparison of Native and Hybrid apps to learn more.

Considering all the factors, the cost of a healthcare application development with all the advanced features and a similar user interface is around $45000 to $50000. The price can even go up depending on many other factors.

But if budget is your constraint, then you need not worry. With Idea Usher, you can create an advanced and productive healthcare app that too within your budget. 

Choose Idea Usher to build a productive and personalized Healthcare App

Healthcare Apps are in great demand due to the advancement in wearable technology in the healthcare sector. They are creating a roar in the market due to their advanced and personalized healthcare services. 

If you are someone who is thinking of developing an advanced and scalable Healthcare or mHealthcare App, then you happen to be at the right place. Idea Usher is a leading software and app development company that designs web and mobile-based solutions for you.

From design to development, we have got you covered! Our team of the best developers will guide you through each and every step of app development, be it designing or marketing your app. We will cater to all your needs and requirements to produce the best-customized solutions.

Furthermore, we use cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain Development, and Machine Learning and complement them with human-centric UI/UX design to offer solutions that are futuristic and result-driven.

Our services are not just limited to just designing and developing your app. We offer our services post your app’s launch, too- like support and maintenance. Furthermore, we will help you to form effective PR strategies to boost your app’s performance in the market. And also getting more app downloads.

What are you waiting for, then? Contact us today to get your dream project started! Also, do not forget to check out our portfolio and the comprehensive list of services we offer to our clients across the globe.

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Wrapping Up

We hope you like our blog about the healthcare app development process. In this guide, we have explained everything about healthcare software development. To conclude, the healthcare sector is a booming industry. There is a high demand for robust IT solutions in this sector. 

Henceforth, by creating a solid healthcare app, you can very easily earn considerable revenue. Furthermore, this industry is expanding its grip all across the globe and not just in the USA. Henceforth, there is so much scope for healthcare app business all around the world. 

Faq

Q1: How to build a healthcare app?

A1: Building a healthcare app involves several steps including market research, defining features, design, development, testing, and deployment. It requires collaboration between healthcare professionals, developers, and designers to ensure usability, security, and compliance with regulations.

Q2: How long does it take to develop a healthcare app?

A2: The time it takes to develop a healthcare app can vary based on factors such as complexity, features, and team efficiency. Typically, it can take anywhere from several months to a year or more to develop a fully functional healthcare app.

Q3: How much does it cost to build a healthcare app?

A3: The cost of building a healthcare app depends on various factors including features, platform (iOS, Android, web), design complexity, development hours, and ongoing maintenance. On average, healthcare app development costs can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Q4: Are health apps profitable?

A4: Health apps can be profitable if they offer valuable solutions to users, target a specific market segment, and effectively monetize through subscription models, in-app purchases, or advertisements. However, success in the healthcare app market often requires thorough market research, user validation, and continuous improvement based on feedback.