Skip to main content

Apple enlists help of startup Health Gorilla to add diagnostic data to iPhones

how to delete apps on an iPhone
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Last week, Apple was reportedly working on a “secret” plan for the iPhone to carry all your medical information — doctor’s visits, prescriptions, lab results, and any other clinical data. Apple had apparently already been meeting with health care administrators and developers to build out additions to the iOS Health app.

Details of Apple’s next move reportedly involves working with a startup called Health Gorilla, according to individuals who relayed the information to CNBC. The startup’s app runs similarly to how Apple might structure its own version by keeping all the medical information on one platform.

The small startup sets out to change the process of doctors visits and encourages people to stay updated on their own health. For patients, the app keeps all medical records stored for easy access which can then be shared with any doctor or specialist. As for doctors, the app is able to automatically inform them of a patients’ medical history as soon as they walk in — potentially eliminating the guesswork of piecing together an accurate diagnosis.

Health Gorilla also intends to reduce the amount of waste produced through ordering billions of diagnostic tests each year. With the app, physicians have access to diagnostic labs, radiology centers, along with skilled nursing and long-term care facilities, among others and can place orders and referrals for patients using a simplified process.

In terms of teaming up with Apple, CNBC noted that Health Gorilla is supposedly working alongside the company to include diagnostic data — such as blood work — on the iPhone through integration with lap-testing companies, imaging centers, and hospitals.

Apple has consistently been making strides to use the iPhone as a tool and resource to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle — with tons of different fitness apps available to keep you moving. Through the Health app itself, users can record their own body measurements, vitals, nutrition, activity, and more. While it can improve a user’s personal relationship with fitness, it still leaves a wide gap between a user and other important aspects of health.

With this plan, the potential upgrade to Apple’s health app can also help those who need to visit doctors apart from their main physician if they are away from home or need to take care of an urgent matter. By having all of the information stored on the iPhone, new patients can reduce the risk of doctors misdiagnosing them or experiencing any other medical errors.

Editors' Recommendations

Brenda Stolyar
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Brenda became obsessed with technology after receiving her first Dell computer from her grandpa in the second grade. While…
Apple’s new in-store device aimed at improving iPhone setup process
iPhone 15 Pro Max lying on the ground surrounded by leaves.

Apple has tackled a minor annoyance that can sometimes impact iPhone customers.

You might know it. It’s when you take your new iPhone from the box, set it up, and discover that the iOS software already requires an important update.

Read more
I have 7 tips to help you take great pictures with your iPhone
The back of a blue iPhone 15 Pro.

I’ve been traveling frequently this year, and an iPhone has always stayed in my pocket. I wasn't a fan of Apple's camera system until the iPhone 14 series, and I’ve been more mindful of a few settings and features lately.

With the iPhone 15 Pro, Apple has added more flexibility and versatility to the three-sensor system. These have changed the way I click photos – or at least how they appear at the end. I’m not a photographer and would rate myself as a beginner, so this is not a guide for professionals. It’s for beginners who can get better photos with just seconds of adjustments with a few settings.

Read more
Is the iPhone 15 Pro Max camera as good as Apple says? I found out
The Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro seen from the back.

Apple iPhone 14 Pro (left) and iPhone 15 Pro Max Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The iPhone 15 Pro Max has the best camera on an iPhone ever. At least, that’s how Apple made it sound during the launch event, so is it true? To rightfully claim this title, it doesn’t need to beat the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or any other Android phone; it needs to beat the iPhone 14 Pro. Until very recently, it had the best camera on an iPhone ever.

Read more