iPod Medic Software

With the release of the iPhone 3G and the 2.0 update for iPhone and iPod Touch, the Application Store is now available for downloading programs directly to your iPhone or Touch. I found two that I think will be particularly useful.

1. Epocrates Rx. Available as a free download, Epocrates Rx provides an in-your-pocket resource of drug information including dosing, safety precautions, and black box warnings. Additionally, Epocrates provides a pill identification guide that allows you to search by shape, color, and markings to identify by picture unknown pills. Originally available on Palm Pilots and Windows Smartphones, I'm pleased to see the jump to the iPhone and Touch. You are required to create a free account at Epocrates, after which you can update information at will and for free
2. ICE by Catalyst software. Available for only $0.99, ICE (In Case of Emergency) places your ICE listing right on your home screen. Not only does it list contact information for your ICE contacts, but it also provides separate listings for your allergies, medications, medical history, and personal information. Everything is very easy to read and intuitive. And, if using the iPhone, you can dial the ICE contacts directly from the program. The only negative about the program is that I had to make a separate entry in my Contacts list for myself to input my personal (or "owner") information. I also had to add custom fields for donor information and blood type. It would have been nice if these features were a part of ICE. Personally, I'm sharing this program with my coworkers and local ER staff to educate them about what a wonderful resource an iPhone or iPod Touch can be about their patients.
   

I've already used Epocrates quite a bit in the few days that I've had it loaded onto my iPod. I can't believe what a wonderful resource it is. As for ICE, there are a couple of other programs on iTunes that offer the same functionality, but ICE is the cheapest and is very identifiable by name.

I'm always interested in learning about new programs and tools. If you know of any, let me know.

Epocrates
Catalyst Software