In recent years, the healthcare industry has undergone a remarkable transformation with the advent of mobile technology. Platforms like Practo have revolutionized how patients book appointments, consult doctors online, and manage their health records. If you are considering developing an on-demand doctor appointment app similar to Practo, this guide will walk you through the steps involved in building such an app, the essential features, costs, and everything else you need to know.
Why Build an App Like Practo?
Practo, founded in 2008, is one of the leading healthcare platforms in India, offering patients the ability to book appointments, consult doctors online, and store their medical records. The app’s success stems from its user-friendly interface, vast network of healthcare providers, and seamless integration of various healthcare services.
Developing a doctor appointment app like Practo can offer a host of benefits to both healthcare providers and patients, including:
- Convenience: Patients can book appointments from the comfort of their homes.
- Efficiency: Reduces the administrative burden on healthcare facilities.
- Transparency: Patients can access doctors’ profiles, reviews, and ratings.
- Integration: Offers telemedicine, appointment scheduling, and prescription management in one place.
Key Features to Develop an Appointment App Like Practo
To successfully build an app like Practo, you’ll need to include essential features that cater to the needs of both patients and healthcare providers. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have features for a doctor appointment app like Practo:
1. User Registration and Login
- Secure registration using email or social media accounts.
- Two-factor authentication for added security.
2. Doctor Profiles and Reviews
- Detailed profiles for doctors, including their specialties, qualifications, and experience.
- Ratings and reviews from previous patients to help users make informed decisions.
3. Appointment Booking
- Patients should be able to search for doctors by specialty, location, and availability.
- Real-time appointment booking and calendar synchronization.
4. Telemedicine and Video Consultation
- In-app video consultation options for patients who prefer virtual visits.
- Secure communication with end-to-end encryption.
5. Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
- Secure storage of patients’ medical records that can be easily accessed by both patients and doctors.
6. Payment Integration
- Multiple payment options, including credit cards, net banking, and digital wallets.
- Transparent billing system to avoid any confusion.
7. Prescription Management
- Option for doctors to send digital prescriptions to patients after consultations.
8. Notifications and Reminders
- Automated reminders for upcoming appointments, medication schedules, and follow-up visits.
9. Admin Panel
- A robust admin panel for healthcare providers to manage appointments, patient records, and billing.
How to Develop a Doctor Appointment App Like Practo
Developing an on-demand app like Practo requires careful planning, the right technology stack, and a clear roadmap. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Market Research
Before you develop an appointment app like Practo, it’s important to conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience, competition, and the unique selling propositions that will set your app apart.
2. Define the App’s Features
Determine which features will be included in your Practo doctor appointment app. You can start with basic features like appointment scheduling and gradually introduce more advanced features like telemedicine and EMR.
3. Choose the Right Technology Stack
For a doctor appointment app like Practo, you’ll need a robust technology stack that ensures seamless functionality. Common technologies used in such apps include:
- Backend: ASP.NET, Node.js
- Frontend: React Native, Swift, Kotlin
- Database: MySQL, MongoDB
- Payment Integration: Stripe, PayPal
4. Design the User Interface (UI)
The success of an on-demand app like Practo heavily relies on its user experience. Ensure that your app is easy to navigate, responsive, and visually appealing.
5. Develop and Test the App
Once the design and features are finalized, the development process begins. It’s important to test the app thoroughly to ensure it is free from bugs, especially since healthcare apps deal with sensitive data.
6. Launch and Market the App
After development, launch the app on platforms like Google Play and the Apple App Store. Invest in digital marketing strategies such as SEO, social media marketing, and influencer partnerships to reach a wider audience.
Also Read: Hire Developer To Develop A Doctor Appointment App Like Practo
Table: Cost Breakdown for Developing an App Like Practo
App Development StageEstimated Cost (USD)Market Research$5,000 — $10,000Design$10,000 — $20,000Development (MVP)$40,000 — $80,000Testing$5,000 — $10,000Launch and Marketing$10,000 — $20,000Total$70,000 — $140,000
The costs may vary depending on the complexity of the app, the development team’s location, and the features you want to include.
FAQ Section
Q1: How long does it take to build an app like Practo?
On average, developing an on-demand app like Practo takes between 6–12 months, depending on the complexity of the app and the number of features.
Q2: What are the key technologies used in developing a doctor appointment app like Practo?
The key technologies include ASP.NET or Node.js for the backend, React Native for the frontend, and MySQL or MongoDB for the database.
Q3: How much does it cost to develop a doctor appointment app like Practo?
The cost can range between $70,000 to $140,000, depending on the features, platform, and region of development.
Choose ARKA Softwares to Develop On-Demand Doctor Appointment Apps
At ARKA Softwares, we specialize in building scalable and secure doctor appointment apps like Practo that meet the needs of modern healthcare providers. Our team of experts ensures that your app is built using the latest technologies and adheres to healthcare regulations, ensuring a smooth and secure user experience.
We provide end-to-end doctor appointment app development services, from initial consultation to post-launch support. Our apps are designed to be user-friendly, feature-rich, and compliant with industry standards, ensuring your business stays ahead of the competition.
Conclusion
Building a doctor appointment app like Practo offers tremendous potential for healthcare providers looking to digitize their services. By integrating essential features like appointment booking, telemedicine, and secure payment gateways, you can create a platform that enhances patient care while ensuring data security.
Partnering with an experienced doctor appointment app development company ensures that your app is developed with precision and tailored to your specific requirements. ARKA Softwares is here to help you bring your vision to life, providing top-tier development services for healthcare apps.