14 DAY TRIAL // As part of its efforts to promote Windows 8, but also to bring more high-quality software solutions in the Windows Store, Microsoft will soon introduce a brand new medical app specifically aimed at users of its latest operating system.
Codenamed HealthVault, the app will be “soon” introduced on Windows 8 platforms, the company said in a press release today.
Basically, the program will include a great feature package that would enable users to collect, store and share personal health information. In addition, it would allow users to connect to third-party services and devices that can help keep the stored information up to date automatically.
Microsoft’s announcement comes after several healthcare organizations around the world have embraced Windows 8, as the number of medical apps currently available to the adopters of this particular operating system exceeds 850.
“Healthcare organizations are under increasing pressure to deliver improved quality of care, provide better access for more patients and lower costs, while tackling productivity and workforce shortage challenges,” said Michael Robinson, general manager, U.S. Health and Life Sciences, Microsoft.
“Microsoft offers the necessary secure communication, collaboration and workflow technologies that complement existing EHR solutions, transforming the practice of medicine from provider-centered piecework to patient-centered teamwork.”
At this point, there are nearly 45,000 apps available in the Store and such efforts are clearly supposed to encourage developers across the world, regardless of their favorite development field, to port their apps to the new Windows 8.
The Redmond-based technology giant has already partnered with several health organizations in the United States to create Windows 8 apps and support both patients and medical staff during the adoption of the new operating system/
“For constantly multitasking clinicians, the Windows 8 interface offers flexibility to use both the touch screen and keyboard on a range of fast, powerful new Intel-based mobile devices,” Mark Blatt, M.D., medical director for Intel’s worldwide health IT group, said in a statement.