Categories: Technology

7 Ways Technology Is Improving Healthcare

Technology and medicine go hand in hand. When technology approves, so does healthcare. It’s why prehistoric surgeons used sharpened stones while modern surgeons use scalpels.

The application of new technology in medicine continues today. It’s a never-ending process, one that is constantly adapting and updating. With this in mind, let’s take a look at six ways modern technology is improving healthcare in the 21st century.

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Improving Healthcare – Wearable Devices

Millions of people worldwide are wearing fitness trackers, smartwatches, and similar health monitors to collect and analyze data about their health and wellness. These wearable devices track vital signs, physical activity, and help individuals stay on top of various chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

As time marches on, wearable devices will become more common as well as increasingly sophisticated. For instance, the latest versions of the Apple Watch – a smartwatch designed and developed by Apple – can detect falls and car crashes and alert emergency responders.

Electronic Health Records

Electronic health records – or EHRs – have been around for decades. But as digital technology continues to improve, so do the ways in which EHRs are used to achieve optimum health and wellness outcomes. Originally developed as a way to ensure privacy and security, EHRs can now be used to streamline the healthcare process for providers and their patients.

For example, someone suffering a relentless dizzy spell while visiting another city can have their medical records immediately transferred to the physicians treating them, establishing a consistency of care and ensuring all preexisting conditions are accounted for before receiving treatment.

Telehealth Apps And Services

One of the most promising developments in recent healthcare technology is the utilization of telehealth, also known as telemedicine. It gives physicians and their patients the option of corresponding in a virtual setting with the use of video chat.

For example, making a telehealth appointment for flu is an easy way for someone to consult their doctor without exposing others to infection. Telehealth can also be used to renew prescriptions, touch base regarding ongoing treatment, and a variety of other medical concerns.

3D Printing

Another exciting development in the world of medicine is 3D printing technology. 3D printing can be used to create prosthetics and implants with exceptional precision. 3D printing can also be used to fabricate surgical instruments and other equipment. In the future, 3D printing may even be used to assemble new bones, organs, and other complex parts of the body.

AI-Driven Diagnostics

Humans are not infallible. Doctors and other medical professionals are no exception. They make mistakes like everyone else and have limitations in terms of knowledge and expertise. With this in mind, it’s easy to see the potential benefits of medical diagnostic systems harnessing the power of artificial intelligence.

Unlike humans, AI will not be affected by fatigue or other conditions impairing thinking. AI will also possess knowledge and information – and the means to draw conclusions from that data – far beyond human ability. While the role of doctors and other medical experts won’t be going away any time soon, the arrival of AI-augmented medicine will be a welcome improvement in terms of efficiency and reliability.

VR-Driven Pain Management

Pain is perhaps the single most pressing concern in medicine, one that dictates a variety of factors when attempting to treat illness and injuries. For instance, invasive surgery is only possible thanks to the use of anesthesia since the pain of the operation can cause severe harm to the patient.

While it sounds hard to believe, research indicates that certain pain levels can be effectively managed without painkillers, thanks to the utilization of virtual reality. Think of how pediatricians utilize distractions like toys and funny faces when administering shots into the arms of infants and toddlers. VR can distract patients during routine procedures known for causing pain and discomfort.

Advancements in medicine are almost always driven by advancements in technology. As a result, new and exciting methods and treatments are always in the works, utilizing the latest in technology. As we move forward into the 21st century, technology will continue to improve the health and wellness of billions of people. It’s a thrilling prospect that will impact everyone sooner or later.