A Jersey-based digital health platform has launched a pilot programme dedicated to prostate health as part of wider plans to create tailored online spaces “that support people when they need it most”.
The new initiative by NowWhat.health provides medical information, personalised peer-to-peer matching and access to “a moderated community where people can share experiences, learn from others and find reassurance during moments of uncertainty”.
The tech firm explained that the launch of the prostate health pilot community marked “the first step in a broader roadmap to create tailored digital support spaces for a wide range of health and wellbeing needs”.
“Work is already underway for a platform expansion to provide dedicated support in the field of addiction, with future plans to launch female health, fertility and neurodegenerative diseases.”
Digital Jersey chief executive Tony Moretta said that the island “has the opportunity to play a meaningful role in digital health innovation”.
He continued: “Initiatives like NowWhat.health show how technology developed and nurtured here can address real human needs and support people far beyond the island.
“This kind of homegrown innovation positions Jersey as a powerful testbed and launchpad for the future of digital health.”
NowWhat.health director Michelle Ryan highlighted that “peer support and shared experiences can be a vital lifeline when someone hits a ‘now what?’ moment in their life”.
She added: “Users consistently tell us that real stories, clear information and a community built around their specific needs help bridge the gap between appointments and in-person support.”
Ms Ryan explained: “We’re excited to develop further bespoke communities as we learn from this prostate health pilot and continue building platforms that support people when they need it most.”
Last month, consultant gynaecologist Neil MacLachlan – who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014 and is now in remission – spoke about the importance of men being aware of the symptoms and speaking to their GP about PSA testing.
Dr Maclachlan also said that Jersey health officials could look into the possibility of a screening programme.
