IllnessIQ wins Rep. Bob Good’s 2023 Congressional App Challenge in Virginia’s Fifth District

When asked what inspired the creation of IllnessIQ, the students said, “Our project’s origin lies in our deep concern for individuals who, for various reasons, cannot or do not seek timely medical care. We noticed a worrying trend where people tend to downplay their symptoms, sometimes to their detriment. Recognizing the critical importance of early detection and timely treatment, we set out to bridge this gap with our innovative app. Our primary motivation was to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health, especially when a hospital visit or family doctor is not immediately accessible. We aimed to provide a reliable and accessible resource for guidance and assistance, addressing complacency and promoting better health outcomes. Our app brings several key advantages. It offers cost-effective health guidance, significantly reducing the financial barrier that often discourages people from seeking medical advice. Unlike traditional consultations with associated expenses, our tool provides valuable insights and recommendations at no cost. Additionally, our app operates 24/7, overcoming the limitations of traditional healthcare systems. Access to family doctors is often restricted by appointments, office hours, and waiting times. Our round-the-clock accessibility ensures that health guidance and information are available at any time, including moments when symptoms or concerns arise outside regular office hours. Moreover, our app is flexible, accommodating a wide range of user inputs. We understand that health symptoms vary and that individuals have unique experiences. This flexibility, in turn, contributes to better overall health outcomes and well-being.”