Marketplace Details
Health App Finder
A central hub for discovering, rating, and engaging with digital tools for IBS management.
What is Health App Finder?
The Health App Finder, developed in collaboration with the University of Calgary, is a secure, web-based interactive tool designed to help individuals living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) discover and navigate mobile app solutions for managing their condition. This centralized indexing portal allows users to explore IBS-related apps based on their unique needs, ensuring easy access to personalized digital health resources.
Why Health App Finder?
Managing IBS is complex, with a wide range of digital health tools available but no clear way to find the right one. Health App Finder empowers users by providing:
✔ A curated directory of IBS-related apps
✔ Searchable filters based on app functionality, mental health support, tracking tools, and community features
✔ User ratings, reviews, and engagement features to foster a trusted community
✔ Secure and private access, ensuring a safe space for patients
Developed with co-design principles, Health App Finder prioritizes user feedback and accessibility, creating a resource that evolves based on patient needs.
Target Population
Health App Finder is designed for people living with IBS, their care providers, and clinicians exploring digital tools for symptom management.
Target Population
Key Features
✔ Comprehensive, searchable directory of IBS-related apps
✔ User-generated ratings and reviews for transparency and informed decision-making
✔ Personalized recommendations based on symptoms and needs
✔ Secure, private access with PHIPA-compliant data protection
✔ Admin portal for app moderation, content updates, and management
✔ Automated notifications for key user actions, such as review reminders and new app updates
Resources
- Privacy-compliant hosting in Canada
- Collaboration with healthcare professionals to validate app recommendations
- Future iterations to enhance social interaction and community engagement
The Team
University of Calgary:
Founded in 1966, the University of Calgary is one of Canada’s top comprehensive research universities, combining the best of university tradition with the city of Calgary’s vibrant energy and diversity. The Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, strives to advance health with communities, aligning with the University of Calgary’s mission of fully engaging the communities they both serve and lead.
Website: https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/departments/community-health-sciences/home
IMAGINE
IMAGINE SPOR is a research network studying the interactions between the inflammation, microbiome, diet and mental health in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IMAGINE created the Health App Finder (POOPIE) to empower IBS patients in navigating through the multitude of digital apps available to better manage their health outcomes. For more information about hosting opportunities of this portal, contact Aida Fernandes (IMAGINE Executive Director) at fernaa19@mcmaster.ca.
Patient Partners:
Patient involvement in health research has not only enriched our understanding but has also ensured that our work remains patient-centered and relevant. Together, we are making significant strides towards improving patient health, and we deeply appreciate patients’ commitment and collaboration. Thank you for being an essential part of our team and for your ongoing support.
Get Involved
Are you an IBS patient, researcher, or app developer interested in shaping the future of digital health solutions? Contact us to learn more about how Health App Finder can support you.