APPlying knowledge: evidence for and regulation of mobile apps for dermatologists

Although the complexity of health-related applications (apps) has evolved, they have not been adequately regulated or monitored for quality. We review the primary literature behind and regulation of apps that impact dermatologists, with a focus on the 3 most prevalent dermatology-related apps used by dermatology residents in the United States: VisualDx, UpToDate, and Mohs Surgery Appropriate Use Criteria. These apps are widely utilized but have not undergone approval by the 3 main government agencies responsible for regulating mobile medical apps: the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Federal Trade Commission, and Office for Civil Rights. Health-related apps that target providers can be a valuable tool, but given their potential impact on human lives, they should be well regulated and evidence based. It is important that apps designed to assist in health care delivery are appropriately monitored and that physicians are aware of the rigor of review of the apps that they choose to use in clinical practice.