In contrast to smart technology, which comprises systems and gadgets with data processing and communication capabilities like wearables, smartphones, and IoT, health technology includes pharmaceuticals, medical devices, information systems, and telemedicine.
Technology and health have long been associated with each other, and this relationship dates back to the 19th century. But, with the times changing, health and technology have been coming closer to collaborating, innovating, and refining medical health practices. In addition, people consider health on an individual basis.
These days, it is so easy to monitor the basics like your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar, while also connecting these to your doctor through online apps. This is possible and great for us, because health is not a light issue, especially when these issues can lead to bigger problems.
Read on to further learn how health can bring about innovative and creative healthcare solutions thanks to the recent updates in smart technology.
The Rise of Health and Smart Technology
The rise in the usage of smart technology in the 21st century has led to brilliant advancements within the healthcare system; digital innovations like AI, VR/AR, etc. are now shaping the healthcare industry of the future.
We can use the era to better healthcare, construct long-lasting structures, and improve ties among physicians and patients if we approach it with an open mind. By transforming the way, we think about health and medicine, adopting digital technology can result in healthier people and communities.
7 Ways That Medical Technology is Reshaping Healthcare
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Artificial Intelligence:
Artificial intelligence has great potential in helping to boost the healthcare sector. AI can mine medical records, personalize treatment plans, and create drugs faster than humans in the medical profession. This is a step up from doing everything manually.
Startups such as Atomwise and Google’s DeepMind have demonstrated how AI can diagnose diseases, speed up drug development, and design treatment plans—all of which have the potential to completely transform the healthcare industry.
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Virtual and Augmented Reality (VA & AR):
There are many companies with emerging technologies now. For instance, ImmersiveTouch is demonstrating great results with its personalized tech for patient imaging and advanced surgical planning solutions through its VR technology, helping doctors achieve precise results.
Not just on the field, but VR is revolutionizing medical education, too. AR education is working to make practicalities in the medical field fail-proof. Such as the Microsoft HoloLens, which provides detailed study materials on the human anatomy.
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Healthcare Gadgets:
Many gadgets help to monitor health, such as with Fitbit. They allow for remote sharing of data with healthcare professionals. It was great for people who need doctors on board with their health, such as high blood pressure patients.
The data collected helps doctors know the true health of their patients around the clock, while the data accumulated helps make informed decisions. Many focus on the physical aspects and the mental health of the patients.
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Medical Tricorder:
Medical tricorders are handheld portable devices that help to assess the patient’s health through noninvasive means. Cutting-edge medical equipment includes the BioSticker from BioIntelliSense. This can measure a range of vital health parameters, providing a preview of more thorough health diagnostics to come.
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Telehealth and Remote Care:
Telehealth is another area of change. There are many online methods of contacting doctors globally and getting the treatment needed or consultations. It is also great for tracking medical records, treatment plans shared by doctors, virtual monitoring by doctors, and other methods.
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Faster Emergency Response Solutions:
With online space and connectedness, it is allowing ambulances, first responders, and emergency departments to share data in real-time. This connectivity improves emergency care by speeding up response times and improving patient outcomes, many of which are life-and-death situations.
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Smart Hospital Management:
The technology of today now allows for smart management of health and hospitals. This includes everything from tech-based supplies, equipment in use (MRI machine), and knowing the hospital’s availability ASAP for intensive treatments. This saves time, cuts down on the waste of resources, and guarantees patients’ treatment in effective ways.
| Bonus: Other Areas Undergoing Change
Genome Sequencing Science and tech have brought about genetic testing that provides information on medical conditions, drug sensitivities, and advances in genome sequencing present in the family history. This allows for personalized approaches to certain conditions. Nanotechnology There is much research done on nanoparticles and smart patches for wound monitoring, diagnosis, and medication delivery. Scientists are creating cutting-edge methods with it, like nano-surgery (minimally invasive surgeries). Robotics Robotics in healthcare is developing quickly, with applications ranging from companion robots for emotional support to exoskeletons for patient mobility. For example, the SuperFlex exosuit by the SRI and DARPA. These types of suits are helping people with disabilities, in the military, and in other areas of life where the suit enhances physical performance, like carrying loads or hiking long distances. 3D Printing 3D printing is transforming the medical field by producing bio tissues, prosthetic limbs, blood vessels, and medications. With these developments from 3D printing in place, researchers are paving the way for a world of amazing medical advancements. |
Daily Innovative Solutions in Healthcare
Healthcare systems now demonstrate the potential for health monitoring with everyday devices, or through apps that enhance healthcare accessibility and self-management. These innovations empower individuals to manage their health proactively. For instance, bilingual support from ISPs in the US like Cox en español ensures that US Hispanic customers are not left behind in the digital shift in healthcare with their internet service.
Some examples of this include:
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Cardiovascular Health:
- ECG Monitor that enables users to record their electrocardiogram with a smartphone attachment for cardiac insights.
- Blood Pressure Monitors for hypertension patients to track and share data with medical professionals – empowering individuals to proactively manage their health
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Chronic Disease Management:
- Glucose Monitor for diabetes management
- Asthma Monitor, which tracks lung function and identifies triggers
- Arthritis Aid for pain tracking, exercise, and medication reminders
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AI and Data Analysis:
- Health records to store and manage health records securely, allowing easy sharing with healthcare professionals.
- AI health analysis for utilizing AI to provide answers to health-related questions
Future Trends and Innovations:
The future of healthcare is going through a major transformation that is driven by innovation and technology. Superspeed 5G networks and edge computing enable how data processes occur, minimizing delays. Moreover, the market of wearables is expanding too, with many health trackers that help monitor your heart rate or diabetes.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) will revolutionize medical training and patient education, offering immersive experiences. Robotics and automation will boost surgical precision, reducing recovery times.
Additionally, gene-editing technologies like CRISPR promise to transform genetic disease treatments, ushering in a brighter era for healthcare. These innovations signify a promising future for healthcare, enhancing patient care and medical practices.
Overall, smart tech is helping innovate how telehealth is conducted, how remote monitoring occurs, and how healthcare providers access records. This allows for tailored health solutions and streamlines data and processes.