The advancements in technology have revolutionized the healthcare industry. Digital technologies such as AI, 3D printing, and nanotechnology have improved the standards of medical care. Diagnostic machines such as MRI and CT scans help in the early diagnosis of diseases. Robots, on the other hand, help to perform invasive surgical processes with accuracy. Online health care systems help to book appointments online. In short, technology has improved the understanding of patients and has enabled the delivery of more convenient, individualized care, as concluded by McKinsey in a recent report. This article will cover how the technology and health science industry has brought positive changes in medicine and patient care.
Reduction in diagnostic errors using an integrated system
According to a study by NIH, approximately 12 million are misdiagnosed every year because of errors in conducting laboratory tests, information gathering, and interpretation. Earlier, patients’ records were maintained manually on paper, and accessing those records was not easy. With technology, patients’ health records are being maintained electronically to ensure accessibility to authorized people.
Data analysis enables doctors to identify patterns and diagnose the disease with accuracy. An integrated laboratory information system with features such as specimen tracking, customized reports, and pre-built dashboards for data visualization and analysis helps to obtain operational efficiency and provide medical care to patients with reduced turnaround times.
Healthcare is now more accessible to everyone, everywhere
In the past, patients had to travel long distances to get help from doctors. But in this digital era, patients can get consultations online. Patients can book, reschedule, or cancel their appointments using healthcare portals.
Data from the American telemedicine association states that around 76% of US hospitals use video and other technologies to connect with patients and consulting practitioners. This proved beneficial during the pandemic. Telemedicine has also helped mental health patients access to therapy, thereby spreading more awareness about the issue.
Continuous monitoring of patient’s health
The wearable technologies such as fitness bands and electronic patches use sensors, actuators, and software to monitor the patient’s health conditions, such as heart rate, body temperature, perspiration, respiration level, and blood glucose level.
Rock Health’s digital health consumer adoption report concluded that in 2020, around 54% of US adults used digital wearables to track at least one health parameter. These devices are designed to identify the anomalies, transmit the data in real-time and notify the patient, their family, and doctors in case any abnormality is observed. The analyzed data is displayed to the patient for self-monitoring, and an activity report is sent to the doctor on a regular basis. This way, a timely healthcare service can be provided to the patients.
Online applications to promote a healthier lifestyle
Mobile applications help to promote a healthier lifestyle among the masses. There are over 400,000 healthcare apps available, and on average, 200 are added per day.
General wellness and home workout apps help people to remain fit and live healthier lifestyles. Sleep tracking applications help to track and record the sleep cycle. Water intake reminder applications help people to keep hydrated during the day. In short, these applications enable people to take charge of their health and develop healthier habits. In addition, these applications are handy for doctors and patients in monitoring their health and quickly looking at vital signs and test results.
Aids in performing surgical processes
Due to recent developments in the healthcare industry, robot-assisted surgery is becoming common. It allows surgeons to perform surgical procedures with more precision, flexibility, and control. The system comprises a camera and a computer console displaying a high-definition 3D view of the surgical site. The surgeon controls the robotic arm and performs complex procedures.
Nowadays, robots are being used to perform non-invasive surgeries, but in the near future, robots will be used to perform orthopedics, gynecology, and neurosurgery.
Ensures the provision of cost-effective healthcare
Technology has not only made the health care service less expensive for patients, but it has also enabled practitioners to introduce cost-effective methods of delivering care. The simple shift from paper to digitalized medical records has reduced the cost of outpatient care by 3 %. The introduction of scheduling applications and portals for administrative tasks has also lowered labor costs.
For patients, it has lowered commute costs as online consultations are available. Moreover, the cost of conducting diagnostic procedures has been reduced because of innovations in medical imaging. Thus, technology provides cost-effective solutions for the healthcare industry.
Conclusion
Technological advancements have transformed medicine and patient care in many ways. These advanced have made accessibility, flexibility, and personalized experience for patients. For healthcare practitioners, it has enabled them to cure diseases that were considered uncurable before. Further research and innovation will improve patient care outcomes and customer satisfaction in the upcoming years.
