Developing a Mobile App for Concussion to aid Patient Empowerment and Symptom Management

Abstract

Despite the high prevalence of concussions each year in Canada, access to consistent and science-based information on how to self-manage these injuries remains a significant hurdle for many patients. Currently, available mobile applications (apps) focus mainly on supporting patients with sports-related concussions, although falls account for more traumatic brain injuries (TBI) than sports-related TBI's in Alberta. Patients from a broader demographic may be limited from accessing information on how to correctly manage and track their symptoms as they feel that currently available resources are not applicable to them. Through collaboration between health system leaders, expert consultations, patients, and university students, a mobile app was designed as a platform to help patients manage and track symptoms at home, as well as to clarify misleading information and misconceptions surrounding injury. The team engaged numerous physicians, patient advisors, and health system leaders to improve upon the features of currently-existing concussion apps such as symptom tracking, insight into concussion, and strategies for returning to work/school that are more inclusive to adult, non-sports related injuries. We believe that these features will advance recovery by alleviating the burden of uncertainty and confusion for patients and their family members.