NSW Government backs digital prescription app
Media release | 11 July 2018
Patients will soon be able to receive medical prescriptions from their doctor via a world-first smartphone app being developed by startup company ScalaMed with support from the NSW Government.
Deputy Premier, Minister for Small Business, Skills and Regional NSW John Barilaro said ScalaMed has received a $25,000 Minimum Viable Product grant from the NSW Government-backed Jobs for NSW to develop the app.
“This is a fantastic idea generated out of NSW which aims to revolutionise how patients get their medical prescriptions – from paper to digital – while also helping millions of people manage their medication,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Jobs for NSW is all about backing people with great business ideas, which have the potential to grow and create employment opportunities for others,” he said.
The Minimum Viable Product grant, provided by Jobs for NSW to ScalaMed, supports startups that are yet to generate revenue to create innovative solutions that address industry needs or market gaps.
When implemented, patients will be able to download the ScalaMed app and add their doctor to receive prescriptions straight to their mobiles, including information on their medication and how to use it. It will also provide digital record keeping for patients, doctors and pharmacists.
ScalaMed founder Dr Tal Rapke, who has worked in medical wards for 20 years, said his next generation prescription system represents the future of healthcare.
“I see this as a global solution to help revolutionise the healthcare space,” Dr Rapke said.
“ScalaMed won’t replace the need to go to a doctor. Rather, it is the first step in creating consumer-centered healthcare where we can leverage data and take the hassle out of managing prescriptions.
“This system aims to streamline the prescription system and provide efficient digital record keeping to benefit patients, healthcare professionals and pharmacists.
“We are looking to roll out the app in Australia and the US and will use blockchain technology to ensure secure data and artificial intelligence to support consumers on their health journey.
“Jobs for NSW has been incredibly helpful through the process allowing me to crystallise my own thinking while getting the product quickly to market.”
