The current political climate renders the process of seeking and receiving healthcare less than ideal–especially if you’re a woman. In a system that is dominated by men, women’s care and rights can be overlooked. Laws and legislation are constantly changing, which can make it difficult for some women to get the care they need. Putting politics aside, all people should have the right and proper access to adequate health care, and that includes reproductive health. Depending on where you live, it might be difficult to even get access to contraception or STI testing. Luckily, the times are changing and there are some revolutionary companies out there to fill the void left by the current healthcare system. Here are a few women’s healthcare apps that are using technology to change the way women seek treatment and put the power back into their hands.
iSono Health
Ask any woman over 35 what she dreads the most and you will probably hear “mammogram” a number of times. This highly uncomfortable screening procedure is an easy one for women to put off or skip altogether. However, breast cancer affects about 1 in 8 US women, a rate that is far too high. Detecting cases early though can be lifesaving. iSono Health is transforming the breast cancer screening process, making it easier and more pleasant. Their patented ultrasound scanner captures 3D images of the breast and uploads it to a secure cloud which your physician can access and analyze. With a record of all your scans and having them done at regular intervals, it can more quickly identify abnormal masses, leading to a more accurate diagnosis. Founded by Maryam Ziaei and Shadi Saberi, iSono Health could revolutionize the way women are screened for and diagnosed with breast cancer.
Talkspace
Women today are expected to be a little bit of everything, loving and nurturing, yet tough and resilient. With mounting pressures both in the workplace and at home, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and mentally exhausted. The mental health field is one that is massively underfunded, so access to these resources is limited and often expensive, leaving many who need help left out, not to mention the stigma that’s attached. Talkspace is an app which allows users to connect with licensed therapists and anonymously talk out what’s on their mind. They have several different plans available, from $25/ week for unlimited messaging to $29 for 30 minutes of live video therapy.
Nurx
Many women, especially young women, are in need of contraception, but because of their state’s legislation or societal expectations, they neglect to get what they need. Enter Nurx, an app that allows you to submit your health information and choose your birth control. A doctor will then analyze the information, authorize it, and your order will be sent straight to your doorstep. For those with insurance, most prescriptions will be free. However, for those not insured, it is still affordable, with prices starting at just $15. Nurx is currently available in 18 states and continues to expand.
EverlyWell
According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections are acquired every day worldwide. Many people may pass on these diseases unknowingly, which is why regular testing is important. Having easy access to testing that is quick and discrete can help to lower this number. EverlyWell is an at-home testing kit that screens for 7 different sexually transmitted infections. With a cost of $199, you can have their comprehensive kit send straight to your door and the results will be available to you within 5 days via their online results platform. EverlyWell has a wide range of testing kits for both men and women for everything from fertility to food sensitivities. It is currently available in 46 states and can accept some insurances.
Maven clinic
Launched in 2016, Maven is a mobile healthcare clinic that connects patients to service providers. They strive to create a more equal system where women’s needs are tended to just as much as men’s. No need to wait for an appointment, take time off work and drive to an office, these appointments can be done while you’re at the office or in the comfort of your own home. In their network are doctors, nurse practitioners, mental health providers, and specialists in all areas. You can browse forums and book a video consultation which ranges from $18 – $40. Their licensed practitioners can even write prescriptions, making it easier for women to access contraception. Created by Katharine Richardson, former reporter for the Economist, Maven now has roughly 100,000 users. They have expanded greatly from their original target market of college-aged women. They have even created the Maven foundation which donates $1 for every appointment booked to women and children in need.
Have you tried any of these women’s healthcare apps?
Also by Kathryn: Can’t Sit Still? Find Sublime Bliss & Calm With These 5 Meditation Alternatives
Related: “It’s All In Your Head”: What All Women Should Know About Medical Gender Bias
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