Session 1 – Saturday

Future of Foot Care: Mobile Apps in Diabetic Ulcer Management (40min)

With the proliferation of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) management apps across various app stores and the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare apps, there is a growing need for a comprehensive evaluation system. Current apps lack sufficient evidence-based reliability, prompting the necessity for a systematic assessment. In this talk, we present our findings on evaluating DFU assessment and monitoring apps, identifying their limitations, and outlining opportunities for future app development. 

An electronic search across two major app stores (Google Play Store and Apple App Store) was conducted. The search yielded a total of 170 apps related to DFU management. From these, 10 apps were selected for review based on a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria that ensured the relevance and potential effectiveness of the apps. The selected apps were then rated by three independent raters using a modified app rating scale designed specifically for DFU assessment apps. This scale evaluates both the functionality and software quality characteristics of the apps. 

The evaluation revealed that most of the apps available in the app stores do not meet the overall requirements for effective DFU monitoring and assessment. Common issues identified included a lack of comprehensive DFU assessment tools, insufficient integration of evidence-based practices, and limited user-friendliness. Many apps also failed to incorporate advanced technologies, such as AI, which have the potential to significantly enhance the accuracy and usability of DFU assessment tools. 

Despite these limitations, the study highlights several opportunities for the future development of DFU management apps. By leveraging advanced techniques, particularly those involving AI, developers can create more effective and reliable tools for DFU management. AI can enhance the precision of ulcer measurement, improve the accuracy of tissue type identification, and provide personalized care recommendations based on the analysis of large datasets. 

The study underscores the importance of developing robust evaluation frameworks for healthcare apps to ensure they meet the necessary standards of reliability and efficacy. By addressing the current shortcomings and integrating advanced technologies, the next generation of DFU management apps can significantly improve the management and monitoring of diabetic foot ulcers, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

In conclusion, while current mobile apps for diabetic foot ulcer assessment and monitoring have notable limitations, they also present significant opportunities for advancement. This talk provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, including pedorthists, doctors, and nurses, by emphasizing the need for systematic evaluation and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance the effectiveness of these vital healthcare tools.