MedConcerns 1.5

MedConcerns stands out as a valuable resource for individuals with aphasia and other communication disorders, facilitating their ability to articulate medical needs. When verbal expression is hindered, discussing health issues can become an overwhelming challenge.

This app features an aphasia-friendly medical assessment designed to empower users to articulate their medical concerns effectively, thereby enhancing their engagement in health-related discussions. Developed by a team of speech-language pathologists and physicians, MedConcerns integrates comprehensive medical evaluations with supportive strategies that aid users in both understanding information and expressing their concerns clearly. Notably, the built-in communication tools require no prior training, making it accessible for immediate use.

MedConcerns utilizes a blend of nonverbal symbols, auditory output, and printed text to streamline communication between patients and healthcare providers.

Intended Audience

• Individuals requiring assistance with communication regarding medical issues.
• Patients facing various communication barriers including:
• • Aphasia
  • Apraxia
  • Dysarthria
  • Dementia
  • Voice disorders
  • Tracheostomy
  • Cognitive disorders
  • Ventilator dependency
  • Deafness or difficulty hearing
  • Autism
  • Individuals communicating in a language different from their providers.
• Supporters of individuals with communication needs, including:
• • Family members
  • Friends
  • Caregivers
  • Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, therapists)

Key Advantages

• Facilitates clear communication without necessitating training in communication methods.
• Reduces the time required to convey health concerns in challenging communication scenarios.
• Includes additional features such as whiteboards, yes/no boards, and topic boards within an interactive interface.

Aphasia-Friendly Features

• Images paired with written and spoken language enhance understanding.
• Simplified visuals and ample white space create an accessible user experience.
• Clarifying questions ensure comprehension of information exchanged.
• Bolder print and simplified text improve readability.
• The ability to minimize the number of icons displayed on each page aids focus.
• A zoom feature enhances visibility of icons for users with visual impairments.
• A whiteboard function allows users to add images, write, and draw for additional clarification.

Recent Updates

• The inclusion of additional medical concerns such as illness, hearing assessments, wounds/incisions, and appetite issues.
• An expanded needs board offers increased customization options for tailored user experience.
• User interfaces can be personalized to hide irrelevant selections on concern screens and needs boards.

More than merely a tool for medical assessment, MedConcerns serves as an interactive mechanism enabling individuals with aphasia and similar communication challenges to articulate concerns effectively and engage meaningfully with family members and healthcare providers.

A trial version, Lite MedConcerns, is available for those interested in exploring its functionalities before committing to the full app experience.