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Long Covid and Digital Health in Switzerland: Potentials and Limitations
Beatrice Kaufmann1, Gabriel Hess1, Lana Cvijic1
1Bern University of Applied Sciences, Institute Patient-centered Digital Health, Biel, Switzerland.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|May 23, 2026
Summary
Digital health interventions (DHIs) for Long Covid show good usability but struggle with accessibility and data protection. Market fragility is evident, with some Swiss apps discontinuing, impacting sustainable Long Covid care.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health
- Public Health
- Health Informatics
Background:
- Post-COVID-19, or Long Covid, is a growing global health concern.
- Digital health interventions (DHIs) offer potential for Long Covid symptom monitoring and self-management.
- Uncertainty exists regarding DHI availability, quality, and sustainability, especially in smaller markets like Switzerland.
Purpose of the Study:
- To descriptively assess ten representative DHIs for Long Covid available in Switzerland.
- To evaluate DHIs using a 19-item framework based on validated instruments.
- To identify strengths and weaknesses of DHIs for Long Covid care.
Main Methods:
- Ten representative DHIs for Long Covid in Switzerland were assessed.
- A 19-item framework derived from validated instruments was used for evaluation.
- Three independent reviewers tested interventions on iOS and Android, providing consensus ratings across five quality categories.
Main Results:
- DHIs demonstrated strong usability (average 6.3/8) and practical usefulness (5/8).
- Consistent weaknesses were found in accessibility (3.7/8) and data protection (4.6/8).
- Total scores varied (14.7–26.3/38), and some Swiss apps were discontinued, indicating market fragility.
Conclusions:
- DHIs show promise for Long Covid management but require improvement in accessibility and data privacy.
- Market fragility necessitates institutional support for the sustainable integration of DHIs into Long Covid care.
- Inclusive design and transparent data practices are crucial for effective and lasting DHIs.
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