The Ministry of the Interior and Health in Denmark is spearheading the establishment of the Board for Health Apps (Nævnet for sundhedsapps), a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the evaluation and recommendation process for health applications within the country. This endeavour reflects Denmark’s commitment to ensuring the quality, efficacy, and safety of health-related technologies available to its citizens and healthcare professionals.
Purpose and Scope of the Board
The primary objective of the Board for Health Apps is to evaluate health applications comprehensively and determine whether they merit recommendations to citizens and healthcare practitioners in Denmark. This evaluation encompasses applications developed by companies, organizations, and other app suppliers. Once endorsed by the Board, these recommended apps will be featured on the official list of endorsed applications accessible via sundhed.dk, a central platform for health-related information and services in Denmark.
Evaluation Criteria and Process
The Board for Health Apps will adopt a broad definition of health apps, encompassing software programs designed for use on mobile phones, tablets, personal computers, or wearables. Importantly, the evaluation process will consider both apps classified as medical devices and those that do not fall under this classification. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that recommended apps align with the diverse needs and requirements of the Danish healthcare system.
The evaluation criteria employed by the Board will focus on several key aspects, including:
Effectiveness: Assessment of the app’s evidence-based effectiveness in addressing specific health concerns or promoting overall well-being.
Ease of Use: Evaluation of the app’s user interface, accessibility, and overall user experience to ensure usability for both citizens and healthcare professionals.
Value: Consideration of the app’s potential value in enhancing healthcare delivery, improving health outcomes, and supporting patient engagement and empowerment.
Moreover, the Board retains the flexibility to refine and adapt its assessment criteria over time based on evolving practices, feedback, and emerging trends in health app development and utilization.
Composition and Governance
According to existing legislation, the Board for Health Apps will comprise a maximum of 11 members appointed by the Minister of the Interior and Health. These members will serve terms of up to four years each, with the Minister also appointing a chairman and vice-chairman from among the Board’s members.
Executive Order and Operational Framework
A draft Executive Order outlining the operational procedures and regulations governing the Board for Health Apps has been published. This Executive Order is instrumental in defining the framework for the Board’s activities, including:
Tasks and Competencies: Clarification of the Board’s responsibilities, authority, and decision-making processes concerning health app evaluation and recommendation.
Meetings and Decision-Making: Establishment of rules and protocols governing the conduct of Board meetings, decision-making mechanisms, and voting procedures.
Secretariat and Confidentiality: Provision of administrative support and guidelines for ensuring confidentiality and data protection in the Board’s operations.
The anticipated effective date for this Executive Order is July 1, 2024. Subsequently, the Board is expected to convene promptly to commence its activities in evaluating and recommending health apps.
Legal Framework and Further Details
For additional legal insights and comprehensive information regarding the establishment and operation of the Board for Health Apps, stakeholders can refer to the official legal document accessible via the provided link: [Executive Order on Health Apps](https://www.retsinformation.dk/eli/ft/202312L00044).
Conclusion
The establishment of the Board for Health Apps represents a significant step forward in Denmark’s efforts to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of health applications available to its population. By adopting rigorous evaluation criteria, fostering transparency, and leveraging expert oversight, the Board aims to promote the adoption of effective and user-friendly health technologies, ultimately enhancing healthcare delivery and advancing public health objectives in Denmark.