The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched a new challenge Monday, calling on developers to create applications that can help solve the "Leading Health Indicators" (LHIs) that were identified as critical health priorities during the American Public Health Association's annual meeting.

The winning app will help public health professionals track, measure and report on progress in these critical public health areas, officials said.

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“The LHIs are a call to action in critical public health areas that demand our immediate attention,” said Howard K. Koh, MD, HHS assistant secretary for health. “We can solve the most pressing health problems in this country, and the LHIs prioritize our actions for a healthier future.”

The LHIs will be used by policymakers and public health professionals to track progress in local communities as they work toward meeting key national health goals, such as increasing access to health services.

For the LHI app challenge participants will submit working Web or mobile prototypes that will be reviewed by a panel of expert judges from the federal government, private sector and academia. Winning applications will include user appeal, integration of health data and evidence of collaboration.

“The LHI App Challenge is an opportunity to improve the public’s health through innovation,” said Todd Park, HHS chief technology officer, who announced the challenge. “Developers and public health experts will work side by side to create customizable and user-friendly tools to help track the nation’s progress in addressing the LHIs.”  

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To learn more about the Leading Health Indicators App challenge and find registration information click here

The Leading Health Indicators are composed of 26 indicators organized under 12 topics. The Healthy People 2020 Leading Health Indicators can be found on the next page.