Cincinnati Edition: Cardiologist develops COVID app to reach African-American communities

UC researcher says technology with better education can empower individuals during pandemic

A University of Cincinnati cardiologist wants to empower communities that have taken a big hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. And he thinks a smartphone app could help.

Donald Lynch, MD, assistant professor of cardiovascular health and disease in the UC College of Medicine, is partnering with researchers in Missouri and Georgia to create an app that delivers COVID-19 information tailored to Black communities.

He spoke with Cincinnati Edition about his work in this area.

"What we know across the country is that COVID has disproportionately affected the African American community and it is unmasking underlying disease," explains Lynch, also a UC Health physician.

He envisions the app providing information on COVID-19 testing sites, self-screening, and providing resources on testing, general health information, and how to access a health care center if necessary.

Listen to Dr. Lynch’s interview with Cincinnati Edition.

Learn more about his smartphone app.

Featured image of smartphone is courtesy of Unsplash.

Impact Lives Here

The University of Cincinnati is classified as a Research 1 institution by the Carnegie Commission and is ranked in the National Science Foundation's Top-35 public research universities. UC's medical, graduate and undergraduate students and faculty investigate problems and innovate solutions with real-world impact. Next Lives Here.

Related Stories

1

A family tradition continues at UC College of Nursing

April 24, 2026

When Ashley Enginger walks across the stage at this spring’s commencement ceremony, she will leave behind a UC College of Nursing that her family is far from finished with. Her sister Sarah is already two years in, and their youngest sister Lauren is set to arrive in the fall.