A new smartphone application, hailed as the “doctor in your pocket,” aims to support millions of Australians managing arthritis, a widespread musculoskeletal condition. Developed to assist individuals like Geraldine Keating, who has faced significant challenges due to her arthritis, the AI-driven app Clara provides valuable resources for pain management.
Clara allows users to access credible research and trusted advice right at their fingertips, facilitating better self-management of their condition between medical visits. With features that include community forums, pain relief suggestions, exercise programs, and dietary guidance, the app offers a comprehensive approach to arthritis care. Its user-friendly interface includes voice command capabilities, enabling both patients and healthcare professionals to ask specific questions tailored to their needs.
Keating expressed her admiration for the app, stating that it has brought together everything she has been searching for in one convenient platform. She described her struggle with daily tasks, highlighting the app’s significance in improving her quality of life.
Arthritis affects an estimated 3.7 million Australians today, a number projected to rise to 5.4 million by 2040. This condition is not exclusive to seniors; as noted by Dr Hashim Abdeen, chair of the Australian Medical Association, even young children, some as young as two years old, can suffer from arthritis. The app not only assists individuals in understanding their condition better but also empowers them to engage more effectively with their healthcare providers.
Clara underscores the potential of integrating technology into healthcare, simplifying complex processes and enhancing communication between patients and doctors. This innovative tool is set to make a significant difference in the lives of many Australians, helping them navigate their journeys with arthritis more effectively and confidently.