Mobile Device Application as Access Strategy to Information in the Context of Health Promotion and Education

Abstract

Health information contributes to knowledge, vulnerability reduction and user empowerment. Health information technologies act in an innovative way as knowledge promoters. Mobile applications add technology and practicality as tools for health universalization. This article aims to present a mobile application as a strategy for accessing information in the context of health promotion and education. The “Aplicativo da Saúde de Uruguaiana (App SAU)” is intuitive, with representative icons and information acquired from health professionals in the municipality and from official sources, organized with easy-to-understand language and simplified technical terms. Offers information about public health services and where they are located on the map of the municipality; reliable and up-to-date information and guidance on COVID-19 and health campaigns; and provides health videos, educational games for children and useful phone numbers. The application, by providing diverse health information to the community, works in favor of Brazilian Unified Health System, health promotion and education, in addition to raising new discussions about access and dissemination of accessible health information that go beyond its local action.