Digital health tools and point solutions-pitfalls in population health program measurement

Digital health tools are generally poorly regulated and often lack strong research evidence, posing challenges for purchasers of point solutions such as employer groups and insurers. Point solutions, which are digital tools designed to manage health-related conditions, to promote wellness, and/or to drive member engagement, present unique challenges for purchasers. In this Review we provide a concise summary of 10 pitfalls in the interpretation of messaging from digital health vendors for purchasers seeking to make good investments in point solutions. We highlight existing population health research approaches that digital health vendors can employ to mitigate these pitfalls. We conclude with a recommendation that employers and health care entities gain clarity on goals related to outcomes they hope to achieve with digital health technologies, and make purchasing decisions based on a framework and objective data supporting the desired outcomes specifically related to those goals.