As many states and countries begin to open up, collecting data and supporting patient health will be important factors in preventing a second surge of COVID-19 cases. Recently, Microsoft and UnitedHealth Group launched a free app, called ProtectWell, for businesses and employees to digitally screen for COVID-19 symptoms as they decide who can return to work.
The ProtectWell app utilizes a chatbot to ask users daily questions based on CDC guidelines. Questions include whether they have had a fever or any respiratory symptoms as well as whether they’ve been in contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19. For any individuals deemed to be at risk, ProtectWell then directs the individuals through ordering a coronavirus test. ProtectWell also provides guidelines related to physical distancing, personal hygiene and sanitation in the workplace.
Data from the app is also de-identified in order to analyze larger workforce health trends, and will be made available to officials and public health organizations.
Microsoft has significant IP in the AI Biotech space, and it would not be surprising to see much of this data used in the development of new screening protocols and diagnosis tools utilizing machine learning.
