TODAY, the Australian Self-Care Alliance is joining the global community in celebrating International Self-Care Day, renewing its call for the Federal Government to allocate $6m for a 'health star rating' system for digital health information and services.
In Australia, two in three people consult the internet before seeing a doctor or pharmacist, and two in five read health information on social media, yet over half of Aussies struggle to identify credible sources of digital information.
John Bell, award-winning pharmacist and Chair of the alliance, emphasises the importance of the initiative.
"When there is a direct cost to consumers for a digital health app, it is wholly appropriate that the government develop an accessible resource for the public to confirm that the intervention is evidence-based and credible," Bell said.
"Additionally, considering the established ability of social media to disseminate information, shape public perception, and influence individuals' health decisions, ensuring every Australian can confidently verify the accuracy of health information should be a public health policy priority."
Self-care is recognised as a comprehensive and cost-effective part of better health, but an individual's ability to engage in it is limited by systemic, structural, and socioeconomic factors beyond their control, Bell added.
He mentioned that despite living in the digital age, Australians still lack a mechanism to verify the credibility of online health information and the efficacy of digital health tools, many of which require purchasing devices, software, or subscriptions.
Globally, the health app industry generated US$3.43 billion (A$5.19 billion) in 2023.
However, less than 1% of weight loss apps were developed with input from health professionals. JG
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 24 Jul 24
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 24 Jul 24
