Our society has come a long way brought about by modernization and technological advancements. Thanks to digital tools and technologies, they have led various industries to significant progress and development.
The health sector is no exception. Sure, it may be a little behind in utilizing digital tools and technologies compared to other industries. However, we’ve seen the adoption of these tools and technologies in recent years. And the COVID-19 pandemic has further led to the digital transformation of hospitals and medical facilities in the health sector.
If you’re wondering what to incorporate into your medical facility, here are some digital tools and technologies:
1. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for Medical Processes
We can no longer ignore the implementation of automation in various industries. This application holds true for the health sector, where health professionals and medical facilities heavily rely on this digital technology. On a more specific note, RPA significantly helps handle and manage several processes in medical settings. It covers from as simple as scheduling medical appointments to as complex as maintaining patients’ medical records. Ultimately, automation makes medical processes and applications seamless, accurate, and efficient.
2. Communication Technology for Telehealth Services
Amid the COVID-19 crisis, telehealth has become increasingly popular. Due to the pandemic restrictions, health professionals and patients have relied on this for online medical consultation, virtual medical care, and remote patient monitoring (RPM). Thanks to communication tools and technologies, telehealth service has become plausible. Patients can get medical checkups, diagnoses, and even medical treatments in the comfort of their homes. They can do so, whether via audio call or video conferencing. Ultimately, communication technologies have made telehealth services possible.
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Personalized Treatments
AI has become such a buzzword in the world of business. However, it applies to the health sector as well. For the uninitiated, AI entails the simulation of human intelligence into machines. It endeavors to make these machines somehow think and work like human beings. What’s good about AI is how it can help analyze patients’ data and provide accurate readings. Health professionals can then use these data and information for personalized treatments.
4. Extended Realities (ER) for Virtual Healthcare
Extended realities such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have become game-changers in various industries. Think of online shopping in e-commerce, virtual tours in real estate, and online learning in education. The health industry hasn’t got left behind as well when it comes to ER applications. Consider the VR technology used for alleviating chronic pain, reducing anxiety, and treating stroke. Students and health professionals even use AR technology for learning and honing medical and surgical skills.
5. Internet of Things (IoT) for Data Interoperability
IoT has drastically changed the world, as we’ve all become interconnected. It allows physical devices to operate and get connected through the web. In the health sector, health professionals can track and monitor patients in and out of a medical setting. Lab tests and medical imaging services can have immediate results. They get forwarded to doctors and patients as well. Ultimately, IoT allows the seamless and accurate sharing of data and information.
6. Smart Medical Devices for Health Promotion
In recent years, we’ve seen the rise of advanced technologies helping different industries. Now, people wear Smart medical devices to monitor their health. Let’s take, for instance, fitness enthusiasts wearing smartwatches to track their fitness progress and even calculate the calories of their food intake. Think of individuals wearing Smart glasses to address their loss of peripheral vision. Consider those with underlying health conditions using wearables for remote patient monitoring.
7. 3D Printing for Manufacturing Medical Devices
3D printing has become such a game-changer in the world of manufacturing. Also known as additive manufacturing, this process entails producing physical objects from digital designs. It involves printing thin layers of materials and forming them together to create the desired object. Keep in mind that 3D printing applies to the health sector as well. Think of the manufacturing of orthotics, prosthetics, and medical devices. Even student doctors use medical devices for medical training and practicum. Ultimately, 3D printing proves to be beneficial in the health sector.
At this point, you now know what digital tools and technologies to invest in and incorporate into your health practice or medical facility. Consider some of the top technological trends recommended above, from RPA for medical administrative processes to IoT for data interoperability to 3-D printing for manufacturing medical devices. Ultimately, there are no signs of stopping or even slowing down for the health industry in terms of digital transformation and technological innovation.
