Recommending health apps

Page last updated 27 October 2025

 

Recommending health apps

 

This resource provides information on what GPs might consider when discussing and recommending health apps with, and for, patients.

While health apps can empower patients and support healthier behaviours, concerns remain regarding the accuracy of content and the robustness of privacy and security measures of some apps.
 

Not all health apps are created equal. GPs should only recommend apps that are demonstrably safe and appropriate for patient use. Before making a recommendation, it is important to assess a range of factors, including:

  • safety and quality,
  • privacy and data security,
  • usability,
  • behaviour change and adoption,
  • cost, and
  • patient consent.

While many patients are open to using health apps, identifying trustworthy options can be a challenge. A recommendation from a trusted GP can significantly increase patient confidence, uptake, and sustained use

The RACGP does not currently review or endorse specific health apps.  Instead, we recommend that GPs apply their own judgement when deciding if and what health apps they recommend to patients.

When recommending health apps, it is prudent to start with well-established apps developed and/or used by reputable health or academic organisations.

Healthdirect has compiled a list of health and wellbeing apps developed by their trusted information partners. These include apps on the topics of:

  • children’s health
  • pregnancy and parenting
  • general health and wellbeing
  • domestic violence
  • disability and chronic conditions
  • cancer, and
  • mental health.

Before recommending these or any apps, you should consider the points outlined below to determine if they are suitable for your patient.

Inclusion of this list in this resource does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement by the RACGP.

Please note the RACGP will be releasing a resource on the use of personal wearable device (for example smart watches) and their associated apps and interaction with general practice in late 2025.

 

Health apps are software applications designed for use on smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other electronic devices. They offer a range of features that support patients in managing their health outside of traditional clinical settings. Common functionalities include:

  • Healthy living guidance – Provide evidence-based strategies for behaviour change, including support for healthy eating, physical activity, smoking cessation, and mental wellbeing.
  • Symptom tracking – Enable users to log symptoms and monitor trends over time, which may assist in identifying patterns or triggers.
  • Remote monitoring – Facilitate the tracking of health metrics such as heart rate, sleep quality, or blood glucose levels. Many apps integrate with wearable devices (for example, smartwatches) to enhance data collection.
  • Information sharing – Allow access to pathology and diagnostic imaging results, and supports electronic prescriptions.
  • Personal health records – Enable users to compile and manage their health information or access records via platforms such as My Health Record.
  • Prompts and reminders – Send notifications to encourage adherence to medication schedules or health-related activities.
  • Appointment and practice management – Integrate with clinical systems to support online bookings, check-ins, payments, and telehealth consultations. Some apps also deliver practice-generated health content that would otherwise be shared via newsletters or websites.
 

In Australia, the Therapeutics Goods Administration (TGA) regulates software-based medical devices (otherwise known as Software as a Medical Device (SaMD)).

According to the TGA:

Software (including mobile apps) is a medical device if it fits within the definition of a medical device in section 41BD of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 unless otherwise excluded.

Software would generally be a medical device if it is intended to be used for:

  • diagnosis, prevention, monitoring, prediction, prognosis or
  • treatment of a disease, injury or disability
  • alleviation of or compensation for an injury or disability
  • investigation of the anatomy or of a physiological process
  • control or support of conception.

Software considered a medical device, including apps, is regulated by the TGA and must be included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), unless they have been excluded.

A product regulated by the TGA and on the ARTG gives greater reassurance by demonstrating the quality, safety, and performance of the medical device. 

Most health apps are simply sources of information, or tools that can help promote healthier lifestyles, and are therefore not regulated by the TGA.

Find more information on the TGA’s Understanding regulation of software-based medical devices webpage.

 

Health apps offer a range of benefits that can enhance patient engagement, improve access to care, and support behaviour change. These benefits include:

  • aligning with patient preference for digital tools to assist them manage their health
  • providing a convenient and approachable entry point for health management
  • empowering patients to take an active role in their health journey beyond the clinical setting
  • increasing access to reliable, trustworthy and evidence-based health information
  • improving access to a patient’s own health records and data 
  • supporting consistent and ongoing health tracking
  • enabling the collection and application of patient data to inform more efficient and personalised care
  • enhancing communication and information sharing between patients and healthcare providers
  • reducing the need for patients to repeatedly share the same information
  • improving adherence to medication and health management plans through timely prompts and reminders.
 

The following list of considerations is not exhaustive, and some criteria may not apply to every app.

These considerations can help determine if an app is safe, effective, and appropriate for the individual user's needs.

It is advisable to personally pilot any app before recommending it – to assess its features, functionality, usability, relevance to patient cohorts, and content accuracy.

Patient choice – Patients must not be forced in to using an app, for example, if the app is recommended for communication of results, or for bookings, patients should not be required to download and use an app and should be offered an alternative method of access.

 

When assessing the safety and quality of a health app, consider the following:

  • Developer credibility
    Who created the app?
    It is prudent to recommend apps developed by reputable health organisations or academic institutions. These developers are more likely to follow evidence-based practices and maintain high standards of quality.
  • Evidence base and guidelines
    Is the content supported by clinical guidelines or peer-reviewed research?
    Apps should clearly reference the sources of their health information. Check whether these references are current and relevant to Australian clinical practice.
  • External validation and listing
    Is the app listed or promoted by trusted health directories or professional bodies?
    Inclusion in platforms such as Healthdirect or endorsement by recognised institutions can indicate a higher level of scrutiny and reliability.
  • Regulatory status
    Is the app regulated as Software as a Medical Device (SaMD)?
    If the app performs diagnostic or therapeutic functions, check whether it is listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Regulation by the TGA provides assurance of safety, quality, and performance.
  • Maintenance and updates
    Is the app actively maintained?
    Look for the date of the most recent update in the app store. Regular updates suggest ongoing support and responsiveness to user feedback or emerging evidence.
  • Use of artificial intelligence (AI)
    Does the app clearly explain how AI is used?
    Look for information in the app’s description, terms and conditions and privacy policy on how AI is used by the app (for example, symptom analysis, predictive modelling) and how it might support the user. /li>
  • Cultural safety
    Has the app been developed with a focus on cultural safety?
    Where an app is intended for use by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, ensure the app has been developed in consultation with community and in response to community needs, is culturally safe and appropriate, and recognises the importance of indigenous data sovereignty.

     

 

When recommending a health app, it is critical to assess how it handles personal data. Consider the following:

  • Compliance with Australian privacy laws
    Does the app comply with the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs)?
    Most health apps collect user data. Ensure the app’s privacy policy outlines how personal information is collected, stored, used, and disclosed. Ideally, data should be stored in Australia, but if stored overseas, the app must ensure compliance with the APPs for cross-border data handling. In summary, this requires an overseas recipient to handle an individual’s personal information in accordance with the APPs.
    More information can be found on the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) website. Refer to OAIC guidance on APP 8 (cross-border disclosure of personal information) for more detail.p>
  • Transparency of data use and affiliations
    Does the app disclose commercial interests, affiliations, or third-party data sharing?
    The app’s terms and conditions or privacy policy should clearly state whether data (identified or deidentified) is shared with third parties, and whether any conflicts of interest exist.
  • Security features
    Does the app offer robust security measures such as two-factor authentication?
    Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection, especially for apps that store sensitive health data. For apps that do contain sensitive health data it would be prudent to check the app requires users to verify their identity using two distinct methods (for example, password + SMS code).
 

Usability plays a key role in whether patients will engage with and continue using a health app. Consider the following factors:

  • User ratings and reviews
    What do other users say about the app?
    Ratings and reviews in app stores can offer insights into the app’s reliability, ease of use, and overall satisfaction. Look for patterns in feedback and consider the volume of reviews.
  • Engagement and personalisation
    Does the app offer a tailored experience?
    Apps that allow users to personalise settings, receive customised advice, or track individual goals are more likely to sustain engagement. Features such as interactive visuals, simple language, and gamification (e.g. points or rewards) can further enhance user motivation.
  • Accessibility
    Is the app usable for people with disabilities or low vision?
    Look for features such as high contrast modes, adjustable text size, screen reader compatibility, audio captions, vibration feedback, and intuitive navigation. These can significantly improve usability for diverse patient populations.
  • Offline functionality
    Can the app be used without internet access?
    Patients in regional or remote areas or those with unstable internet may benefit from apps that function offline or offer “catch-up” syncing when reconnected.
  • Clinical integration and support
    Does the app align with your clinical workflow?
    Consider whether the app integrates with your clinical information system or allows data to be exported in a format that can be shared with the patient’s care team. This can enhance continuity of care and support clinical decision-making.

Usability features may be best assessed by personally piloting the app before recommending it to patients.

 

Health apps can be powerful tools for supporting behaviour change, especially when they incorporate evidence-based design elements. When evaluating an app’s potential to influence patient behaviour, consider whether it includes the following features:

  • Multiple engagement modalities
    Does the app offer varied ways to interact, such as videos, quizzes, or goal-setting tools?
    Diverse formats can help maintain user interest and cater to different learning styles.
  • Self-monitoring capabilities
    Can users track their own behaviours, symptoms, or progress?
    Self-monitoring is a key driver of behaviour change, helping users stay accountable and recognise patterns.
  • Goal setting and feedback
    Can users set realistic goals and receive feedback on their performance?
    Apps that support goal tracking and provide constructive feedback can reinforce positive behaviours.
  • Relapse prevention tools
    Does the app include prompts, reminders, or cues to support ongoing engagement?
    These features can help users maintain progress and avoid setbacks.
  • Knowledge building
    Is the content evidence-based and designed to educate users?
    Reliable information empowers users to make informed decisions about their health.
  • Social support features
    Does the app allow users to connect with peers or share progress?
    Social features—such as community forums or sharing capabilities—can enhance motivation and accountability.

These features are best assessed by personally trialling the app before recommending it to patients.

 

Cost can be a significant factor in whether a health app is suitable for a patient. Consider the following:

  • Initial and ongoing costs
    What is the upfront cost and are there recurring fees?
    Some apps are free to download but require payment for full functionality. Others may charge a one-time fee or operate on a subscription model.
  • Freemium models
    Does the app offer a free version with optional upgrades?
    Many apps use a “freemium” approach, where basic features are free but premium features require payment. Assess whether the free version meets the patient’s needs or if the paid version is necessary.
  • Subscription risks
    Are there automatic renewals or hidden costs?
    Be cautious of apps that offer free trials which automatically convert to paid subscriptions if not cancelled. These can lead to unexpected charges, especially if the patient is unaware of the terms.
  • Time-limited access
    Does the app restrict access after a certain period?
    Some apps offer time-limited programs or features that may expire before a treatment or behaviour change plan is complete.
  • Financial impact
    Is the cost reasonable and sustainable?
    Consider whether the app represents good value for its intended purpose. An expensive app may not be appropriate if similar functionality is available at a lower cost or for free.
 

Before recommending a health app, it is important to ensure that patients understand what they are consenting to when downloading or using the app.

  • Transparency of terms
    Are the app’s terms and conditions and privacy policy clear and accessible?
    Patients should be encouraged to review these documents to understand how their personal information will be collected, used, stored, and shared. This includes any data sharing with third parties, commercial affiliations, or use of deidentified data for research or marketing.
  • Informed decision-making
    Is the consent process meaningful and not buried in fine print?
    Apps should present consent information in a way that is easy to understand, ideally before any data is collected. Look for apps that use plain language and provide clear options for opting in or out of specific features.
  • Ongoing consent
    Can patients update or withdraw their consent?
    Patients should be able to manage their privacy settings and withdraw consent if they choose to stop using the app. This is particularly important for apps that collect sensitive health data.
 

Before recommending a health app, it is essential to consider whether it is suitable for the individual patient. This ensures the app supports, not hinders, their health journey. Key considerations include:

  • Clinical relevance
    Does the app align with the patient’s condition or health goals?
  • Social and commercial determinants of health
    Does the app account for the patient’s broader context?
    Consider factors such as housing, employment, financial stress, and access to technology, which may affect the patient’s ability to use the app effectively.
  • Cultural and linguistic suitability
    Is the app culturally sensitive and available in the patient’s preferred language?
    Apps that reflect the patient’s cultural background and offer multilingual support are more likely to be engaging and effective.
  • Literacy and digital skills
    Does the patient have the necessary reading, health, and digital literacy to use the app safely?
    If not, the app may cause confusion or lead to misinterpretation of health information.
  • Motivational impact versus burden
    Will the app empower or overwhelm the patient?
    Some patients may find apps motivating, while others may feel burdened by constant tracking, the need for regular input, interactions or receipt of notifications, particularly if there is no tangible outcome from their efforts.
  • Risk of anxiety or delay in care
    Could the app cause distress or delay appropriate medical attention?
    Apps that provide health information without context may increase anxiety or lead patients to rely on self-management when clinical care is needed.
  • Risk of exacerbating existing conditions
    Could the app potentially exacerbate an existing condition?
    Some apps may may not be appropriate for individuals with specific conditions, for example apps that include calorie counting will likely be inappropriate for a patient with an eating disorder.
  • Availability of alternatives
    Is there a more appropriate non-app-based option?
    In some cases, printed resources, in-person support, or phone-based services may be more suitable.

When discussing health apps with patients, clarify that the app is intended to complement – not replace – clinical care. A recommendation does not constitute endorsement, and patients should be encouraged to ask questions and seek support as needed.

 

Recommending a health app is not a one-off action – it should be followed by appropriate documentation and review to ensure it continues to support the patient’s care.

  • Document the recommendation
    Record the discussion in the patient’s file.
    Include details such as the name of the app, the rationale for recommending it, and any advice or instructions provided. This supports continuity of care and medico-legal accountability.
  • Review app usage during follow-up
    Revisit the patient’s experience with the app in subsequent consultations.
    Consider asking:
    • Have you found the app useful?
    • Are you still using it?
    • Would you recommend it to others?
    • Have you noticed any changes in your behaviour or health since using the app?

These conversations can help assess the app’s effectiveness, identify any issues, and guide future recommendations.

 

For additional guidance on privacy, data management, and regulatory considerations when recommending health apps, refer to the following resources:

RACGP

Privacy and managing health information in general practice – This resource outlines best practices for handling patient data securely and ethically within general practice settings.

TGA

Understanding regulation of software-based medical devices – This guidance explains how software, including mobile apps, may be classified and regulated as medical devices under Australian law.

 

This document does not constitute legal advice. The RACGP takes no responsibility for any loss of any description by a practice or person as a result of relying on this document. If unsure about recommending health apps, independent legal – or medical defence organisation (MDO) – advice should be sought.

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