Google partners with Apollo Hospitals to launch ‘Symptom Search’
With the vast majority of the global population ‘Googling’ their health symptoms before visiting a doctor, India is no exception.
It has recently been revealed that Google has partnered with Apollo Hospitals to launch its “Symptom Search” feature. Available solely in India, it enables users to source information regarding commonly searched symptoms within the country. These range from soughs, to pneumonia and chest infections.
Available in both English and Hindi, the smartphone application will present cards which will provide an overview and symptoms on how to treat an illness at home, or whether it will require a visit to the GP.
“Apollo Hospitals has always been committed to empowering individuals with knowledge and involving them in their own care,” explained Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals.
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“This is a significant trend and we are happy to have partnered on this initiative with Google. At Apollo Hospitals, we have always made optimal use of digital technology for the benefit of patients. The abundant experience and expertise of our consultants was drawn towards providing clinical validation of the symptoms to spread the message of awareness and prevention of diseases.
With the launch of the Symptom Search Project, we aim to provide quality healthcare information which can be accessed by a billion Indians.”
The news follows on from recent reports that Google is set to move into population health management. Its sister company, Verily, will work with insurers when bidding for new contracts, utilising data analytics to take escalating healthcare costs, complex regulations and security concerns.
Providing ample opportunity for the technology giant, tapping into such a lucrative market could see the company develop tailored solutions and remain ahead of the curve.
