Helping the Health Workers
New Zealand’s Ministry of Health has recently launched a new mobile app named Awhina to help health workers access the information they need about the COVID-19. Through this app, health workers can quickly filter content so they can find what is relevant to them and can also save content in the app to give them quick access to it later. The app is developed by health ministry with the feedback from people working in the health sector, and by learning from approaches taken in other countries to get information about COVID-19 to health workers. As of 27th May, New Zealand reported no new cases of COVID-19 for the fifth consecutive day. Currently, there is no one in New Zealand receiving hospital level care for COVID-19.
Providing Easy Access to Information
There is a lot of information health workers need quick access to, like the latest case definitions, clinical care pathways, or Personal Protective Equipment guidance. Awhina gives them access to this information from their mobile device anywhere, anytime. “Information for health workers is frequently updated based on latest research, advice, and changes to alert levels. Awhina will notify health workers when new or updated content is available to them,” said Deputy Director General Data and Digital Shayne Hunter.
The COVID Tracer App
Last week, New Zealand launched its NZ COVID tracer app, which is designed to support rather than replace existing contact tracing processes. The app will create a “digital diary” of the places that users visit through the scanning of QR codes displayed at the entrances to business premises, other organizations and public buildings. New Zealand based healthcare software company Orion Health will also be delivering a national algorithm hub to support scenario modeling, risk prediction, forecasting and planning throughout New Zealand’s COVID-19 response.
