Tag: drugs

HSE launches HSE Health App

The Department of Health and HSE have just launched the first version of the HSE Health App. It is one of the first initiatives delivered as part of Digital for Care, Ireland’s health and social care digital framework. Anyone aged 16 and over can download the app for free from Google Play or the App Store. However first phase functionality will be most useful for expectant mothers. 

This first phase functionality allows people to carry a digital list of self-declared medications and see a list of medicines received through the Drugs Payment Scheme or Medical Card Scheme. It allows them to store their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), medical card, Long-term Illness card (LTI), Drugs Payment Scheme card (DPS) and GP Visit card. It provides access to flu and COVID-19 vaccination records and allows the user to easily find information about HSE services, such as EDs and Injury Units. It further allows those involved to view maternity service appointments (for expectant mothers).

According to HSE CEO, Bernard Gloster, there has been “much progress made in modernising the data capabilities and digital technologies of our health service in recent years. The launch of the first version of the new HSE Health App represents the next step forward in our digital transformation journey, as we seek to harness the power of data and innovation to help improve access to care for patients and enhance efficiencies across services.

“Through utilisation and ongoing development of digital tools, such as the new HSE Health App, we see a future where our patients and the people who care for them are empowered and better informed about their care. I will continue to ensure that we prioritise providing increased access for patients to their data allowing them to interact with our health services to improve their experiences.”

Damien McCallion, HSE Chief Technology and Transformation Officer added that “anyone who wishes to, can use the first version of the HSE Health App. This is just the beginning – the app is an evolving programme of work, with new services and features planned each year, including expanding the appointment functionality for all public hospital appointments. This is a challenging undertaking but a key priority to deliver for everyone under our care.The app is one aspect of the digitisation of the health service and a major priority as we face new challenges and ensure we can provide the health service the country needs and deserves.” 

The app development team has consulted with a number of organisations representing disabled people and worked with a Patient Advisory Group to understand the needs of a wide range of individuals. This has ensured their needs are heard and they are involved in the design process. The app has also been tested with users who rely on assistive technology, and audited to ensure it reaches HSE and European standards for accessibility. Work is ongoing with users of the app to identify and implement improvements so new features and functionality can be added.

Future app features will be guided by ongoing research and engagement with patients, staff, and the public. For now, the HSE Health App is available in English and Irish – other languages are being explored for future versions. 

A verified MyGovID is needed to access personal health information. If the user does not have a verified MyGovID, they will still be able to use the app to find information about health conditions and HSE services.

For more information see hse.ie/health-app   

Erin Mills develops educational website surrounding drug dependency arising from prescribed medications

Erin Mills, a TY student from St. Mary’s Arklow Secondary School, was awarded for her remarkable project, which investigates the effects of drug addictions and dependencies stemming from medications provided by the healthcare system, during the Scifest@Teen-Turn event held in IBM, Dublin.

Through extensive research and analysis alongside her studies, the final result culminated in a website that educates audiences on drug dependencies. The idea for the project, entitled “Breaking the cycle: Evaluating the investment in non-addictive alternatives to current medications”, came from seeking a way to help those struggling with opioid addictions and furthermore attempting to find a solution to drug addiction issues.

When asked what Erin is most proud about from working on the project, she says “My final website. I coded it from scratch and I think it came out really good”. Teen-Turn, an Irish non-profit organisation that provides teen girls the opportunity to gain hands-on STEM experience and the support to acquire qualifications and jobs, provided Erin with company mentors to assist her with research, statistical analysis, and computer programming. Joanne English, Erin’s teacher says “Erin’s idea developed over the 12 weeks through working with the Teen-Turn/Project Squad mentors. Erin worked at a steady pace and always kept on track with her intended goals for the week. The project squad mentors gave Erin valuable feedback on all aspects of her project.”

Erin won 1st place in the Senior Social Science Category Winners and was awarded an iPhone 16, with thanks to contributions from BNY Mellon towards Teen-Turn participants undertaking enterprise and innovation. She also qualified for BT Young Scientist and had the opportunity to present her project to President Michael D. Higgins at the BTYSTE exhibition in the RDS. Through Teen-Turn’s free after school programmes and activities such as Project Squad, secondary school students are informed on education and career options, often leading them to discover new skills and interests. As more girls explore and gain an interest in STEM, this will lead to more women earning STEM qualifications, thus leveling the playing field.

More information on their activities and the supports they provide to girls is available at www.teen-turn.com.