Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System say an app designed to help those with HIV manage their illness is leading to healthier patients.
PositiveLinks debuted in 2013 to provide HIV patients with an effective way to self-monitor their illness.
The app allows users to access clinical services and a digital support network.
Dr. Rebecca Dillingham helped develop the app, and she says it encourages patients to live healthier lives.
“Not only is it helping people achieve their health goals, but it’s also helping to decrease stigma and increase the feeling of social support for people who are living with a disease that unfortunately is still unfairly stigmatized,” says Dillingham.
More than 200 UVA patients are enrolled in the app and researchers plan to expand outside of the area.