Instagram-like app lets physicians share photos for second opinions

Since its launch in 2013, Figure1 is taking the medical world by storm, allowing physicians and medical students to share photographs and information about their patients strictly for learning and diagnosis, according to CNN.

The app allows users to take an image of a particular patient or medical issue, remove any identifying characteristics and upload the image for feedback from a community composed entirely of medical professionals.

Figure1 also allows users to "follow" specific medical fields and interests and to page specialized experts to get a second, third or fourth opinion about a diagnosis.

To ensure anonymity, all images undergo additional verification by a medical officer and team of moderators before being publicly shared on the app. Medical professionals must also obtain permission from the patient and the medical facility before taking or posting a photo.

While the general public might want to see the postings, the app is targeted at those who work in the medical industry. New users are asked a series of questions regarding their occupation and only healthcare professionals can upload or comment on photos, according to the CNN report.

The app is available in 19 countries. Nearly 30 percent of users are medical students in the U.S., according to CNN. Data released by Figure1 said images in the app's library are viewed nearly 1.5 million times daily.

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