What's Happening?
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued draft guidance recommending the use of digital apps to assist patients in managing asthma. This guidance, published on January 7,
2026, suggests a three-year evidence generation period during which the effectiveness of these technologies will be evaluated. The apps are designed to provide personalized asthma action plans, symptom tracking, medication reminders, and educational content. They aim to complement regular healthcare appointments and can share information with healthcare professionals to enhance appointment efficiency. Anastasia Chalkidou, HealthTech programme director at NICE, emphasized the potential of these technologies to reduce health inequalities, particularly for individuals from deprived areas who are more likely to suffer from asthma. The draft guidance also includes recommendations for an AI-powered tool, ArtiQ.Spiro, to assist in interpreting spirometry tests for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of digital apps for asthma management by NICE is significant as it addresses the challenge of health inequalities, particularly in deprived areas where asthma prevalence and outcomes are worse. By providing personalized support and improving access to asthma management tools, these technologies could lead to better health outcomes and reduce hospital visits. The use of AI in interpreting spirometry tests could enhance diagnostic accuracy and support primary care providers who may not frequently use these skills. This initiative reflects a broader trend towards integrating digital health solutions into traditional healthcare systems, potentially transforming patient care and resource allocation.
What's Next?
The draft guidance is open for consultation until January 21, 2026, with final publication expected in April 2026. During the evidence generation period, the effectiveness of these digital platforms will be closely monitored. If successful, they could be recommended for routine use across the NHS. Stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and technology developers, will likely engage in discussions to refine these tools and address potential barriers such as health literacy and digital access. The outcome of this consultation could influence future healthcare policies and the integration of digital health solutions in other areas.
