During the pandemic, it was necessary to prevent people from visiting hospitals wherever possible to minimize the risk of COVID-19. However, avoiding in-person appointments brought significant challenges of its own, especially for pregnant women. They were unable to receive vital care, which include, regular blood pressure and glucose monitoring. Both are very important because a fluctuation in either can cause serious complications, for example, pre-eclampsia and diabetes.
Clinicians of St. Mary’s Hospital, which is a part of Manchester University, NHS Foundation Trust contributed to the development of the MyMaternity app. Moreover, feedback was taken from people under their care previously. It helped in forming the design and content.
Real-Time Information
The app lets pregnant women check their blood pressure and glucose levels at home. In addition, midwiferies get the information in real-time. They monitor the results and recommend further treatment if needed. The app also provides information and guidance to the users.
The app is available to three hospitals in Greater Manchester.
Consultant Obstetrician at St. Mary’s, Professor Jenny Myers said,
“During COVID-19 it has been vital to keep our pregnant women safe and reduce hospital attendances where they can be avoided. By being able to monitor our pregnant women remotely, maintain regular contact with them and view their results easily in the new app we can continue their care and limit the number of people needing to attend hospital during the pandemic.”
The Technology Behind the App
Tech company Graphite has developed the app. They specialize in developing health and care IT solutions, supported by the delivery system of Health Innovation Manchester. Moreover, the development is in collaboration with users.
Digital innovation director, Health Innovation Manchester, Guy Lucchi said,
“The MyMaternity app is a fantastic example of using technology to improve patient care and support clinicians. It is also a testament to the strength of our existing devolved partnerships across GM to take swift action on things that will directly benefit patients and frontline services during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.”
