Though still a somewhat loosely defined term, mobile health (mHealth) examines the structural and behavioral changes that occur as new technologies advance our health care system worldwide. We are in the early stages of a disruptive period in the health care industry, and mHealth is playing a significant role in that transition. This report examines the growth of mHealth specifically in the context of mobile health apps, from the medical arena’s use of the iPad to smartphone apps that combat chronic diseases and aging. And with research on the role of social networks in health outcomes growing by the day, the next generation of mHealth apps promises to bring further insights into the effects of social media on health outcomes. A number of challenges — sustaining viable business models, the specter of FDA regulation, and cost issues — exist in the space, but partnerships between employers, retailers and technology developers will continue to combat them and provide new innovation architecture in health care. With the help of this new generation of apps, health care, and indeed, our perception of wellness overall, will change dramatically. Companies mentioned in this report include Apple, mPedigree, Orange, Vodafone, Voxiva, Skyscape, Research in Motion, Google, Intel, Nike, Adidas, Philips, Twitter, Hope Labs, Virgin, Discovery Health, Telefonica I+D, Layar and Kendall & Son Solutions. Read more at GigaOM Pro »