As the technology industry grows increasingly mature, we see trending healthcare technologies that apply to the field of medicine. These new technologies can help improve patients’ lives, streamline operations, and save money for hospitals.
Here are six of the hottest recent trends that will be changing healthcare in 2023:
1. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the ability of a computer to perform tasks in a way that seems intelligent. AI can help healthcare providers predict outcomes, improve patient care and reduce costs. For example, doctors can use AI to help make better decisions about patient treatment plans based on how similar patients have responded to different treatments in the past. Some examples of AI are:
- Accurate Cancer Diagnosis.
- Early Diagnosis of Fatal Blood Diseases.
- Customer Service Chatbots.
- Virtual Health Assistants.
- Treatment of Rare Diseases.
- Targeted Treatment.
- Automation of Redundant Healthcare Tasks.
- Management of Medical Records.
2. Biometrics
Biometrics is the use of physical and behavioral characteristics to identify an individual. It can be used for security and access control, but it’s also quite popular in healthcare because it allows clinicians to confirm a patient’s identity quickly.
Biometrics are used in doctors’ offices, hospitals, and other healthcare settings to ensure accurate patient identification or for monitoring patients. Applications can include access control or patient record storage.
Biometric data can be collected from fingerprints, iris scans, palm prints, and voice recognition–to name just a few examples–and stored on a database that can be accessed by hospitals or clinics when necessary. The most common use of biometrics involves identifying patients as they enter the hospital; this helps ensure that they receive appropriate care while protecting against fraud (see our “Hospital Hackers” article). Other uses include identifying healthcare workers so they can access patients’ records without having their credentials stolen by someone pretending to work there; determining whether two people claiming to be related share enough genetic material for them, not just legally but medically speaking, or simply verifying who someone claims themself as online via social media platforms such as Facebook where names aren’t always accurate.
3. Digital health
Digital health is a broad term that encompasses many different technologies. Digital health can help people live healthier lives by providing them with tools to manage chronic diseases, monitor their health and fitness, and live more active lifestyles.
Digital health can also be essential in managing chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension by providing patients with tools to track their blood sugar levels or blood pressure readings at home or on their phones. This allows them to get immediate feedback about how well they manage these conditions so they can adjust their treatment plans accordingly.
For example, A patient who has been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes may be able to use an app on his phone that automatically sends him reminders when it’s time for him to check his blood sugar level (or if he has forgotten).
4. Patient engagement and outreach
Patients are more active in their health. Patients are more informed about their health and the treatments they should be receiving. They’re also aware of their issues, which means they want to be involved in their treatment and wellness. For example, patients can take part in online forums to share information with others with similar conditions or even start a blog detailing what it’s like being sick or injured, how you’ve overcome specific challenges, etc.
Another example of patient engagement is automated appointment reminders and follow-up communications to eliminate phone calls that help patients remember their appointments.
5. Remote patient monitoring
Remote patient monitoring is a technology that allows patients to be monitored and treated from a distance. This can be done using a combination of sensors, software, and hardware. Remote patient monitoring is used for chronic conditions (such as diabetes) and acute care (such as heart attacks).
6. Telehealth
Telehealth is the use of telecommunications to support long-distance clinical health care. It can be used for patient education, disease management and treatment, and remote consultations. Telehealth has increased access to care for those who live in rural areas or have limited transportation options; it’s also useful for people with chronic conditions requiring frequent monitoring or follow-up appointments (like diabetes).
Telemedicine providers offer services such as video conferencing between doctors and patients; secure messaging between providers and patients/clinicians; virtual visits from telehealth professionals; educational resources about specific diseases or conditions; prescription refills through an online portal (if permitted by state law); online monitoring devices such as glucose meters that send test results directly back to a healthcare provider via the smartphone app.
Conclusion
The future is bright for healthcare technology and the future of medicine. It’s an exciting time to be in this field, and we’re looking forward to seeing how these new technologies will change how patient care is delivered and improved.
