SoomSafety app notifies patients, caregivers and nurses of medical device recalls

soomSafety

A company called Soom launched a novel iOS app that allows users to scan a medical device and receive instructions for use, safety and recall information directly from the device manufacturer and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Called SoomSafety, it is reportedly the first app to utilize openFDA, open-source databases that enable developers to quickly and easily use FDA data in applications.

“We built SoomSafety to help patients and caregivers relying on implanted medical devices and using medical devices at home answer one critical question, ​’Is this medical device safe to use?'” Charlie Kim, President and CEO of Soom, said in a statement. ​”Our technology makes it possible to connect previously siloed medical device data, giving patients-and their caregivers-more proactive control over their health and safety.”

SoomSafety users scan the barcode on a medical device, such as an insulin pump, nebulizer or apnea monitor, to automatically identify the device and store it in the app. The app also identifies and stores implanted medical devices like artificial joints, pacemakers and heart valves by scanning the barcode on a patient’s medical device identification card.

Once a device is stored, the app checks for FDA recall information, provides next steps in the event of a recall and pushes notifications if the device is ever recalled. In addition, the app displays safety and use information for each stored device.

SoomSafety is available now for free in the Apple App Store.