The Mayo Clinic recently launched their first free iPhone application: Symptom Checker. Geared toward consumers, the app collects adult or child symptoms from the end-user and provides information about self-care at home or guidance on when to seek additional care. In the Clinic’s lingo, the app provides practical “action-oriented” information to consumers. The app also serves as a mobile gateway to the Mayo Clinic and its web empire (i.e., MayoClinic.com). There is information about how to beome a patient and features to facilitate scheduling appointments.

Beyond the patient care aspects of the Symptom Checker, the app is a reflection of the Mayo Clinic’s marketing genius. It not only strengthens the already preeminent reputation of the Mayo Clinic, but attracts new patients in a new and innovative manner.