95 Rating endometriosis apps using the applications scoring system

Abstract

To identify the top-rated endometriosis applications (apps) using the previously validated APPLICATIONS scoring system. A list of endometriosis apps were identified from the apple app store, google play, and an internet search. Apps that were deemed inaccurate, non-English language, and duplicate were excluded. The APPLICATIONS scoring system, a standardized, validated tool, was used to assess the remaining apps for comprehensive medical information, accessibility, and ease of access. The apps were scored by three evaluators. Through the search conducted, 19 applications were identified. Cross-validation of these applications was performed using the Google search engine. Seven apps were excluded (36.8%). The remaining 12 (63%) applications were scored by three reviewers. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) for assessing inter-rater reliability of total scores was 0.94 (95% CI = 0.85, 0.98 indicating good reliability). Two of the apps scored above 10 using the APPLICATIONS scoring system, Flutter, an iOS-only patient-directed app by Flutter Health Inc, scored 14.67 points and Endo App, an android only physician-directed app by ESHRE scored 13 points. Of the limited amount of endometriosis-related applications identified only 12 were found to be relevant. This highlights the lack of useful patient and physician-directed apps for the management and treatment of endometriosis. There is abundant potential for the development of mobile resources to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.