The technological advancement in healthcare has resulted in better treatment and diagnosis of patients. From the advances in surgical practices to the invention of X-ray machines, the healthcare sector has increased the overall life expectancy and improved life quality. Here are the benefits of technology in the healthcare industry.
Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
Patients suffering from ailments and disease may benefit directly from the potential benefits of EHR. Electronic health records refer to the systematic collection of patient data in a digital format. The information is later shared in different healthcare settings. Digitization of healthcare records has allowed caregivers a better understand the patient history. Having comprehensive patient information empowers nurses to provide more accurate treatment options.
Healthcare practitioners rely on the patients’ memory when there are no accurate medical records. This might lead to inaccurate data since the patient may not remember complex drug names or essential details. Electronic health records also reduce costs by improving safety and decreasing paperwork. The time spent on the identification of patients upon admission to a healthcare facility can also be reduced. Research indicates that the implementation of EHR can decrease time spent in hospitals by about 60%.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine is a healthcare technology enables phone or video appointments between healthcare practitioner and patients. Healthcare providers use this technology to assess whether their patients would require in-person treatment and write new prescriptions. Doctors may also incur less overhead costs as they do not have to invest in large floor space or support staff.
Telemedicine has improved disease management. Medical practitioners have a chance to see the patient’s environment. For instance, specialists can identify allergens that might be causing allergies in your home. It is also a good way of providing counseling and mental health assessment. A practice management software company can help doctors and patients to access the necessary programs to help them communicate with patients.
The adoption of telehealth has made it easier for individuals with a disability, those who are geographically isolated, and older adults to access care. Patients can access care from the comfort of their homes. They also do not have to take time off their work to visit a doctor. Patients are also happier when they don’t have to travel long distances to see their doctors.
Besides, visiting a healthcare facility means being around sick people and particularly individuals with underlying medical conditions. Telemedicine has greatly eliminated the risk of getting infected when you visit the hospital.
Wearable Technology
The market for wearable medical devices has grown significantly. These devices aid in data collection, which helps healthcare providers assess and monitor the wearer’s health. Healthcare providers can detect irregularities, especially in individuals that are prone to health problems. This ensures that emergencies are noticed even before they occur. The system can also send alerts to family members in case of an emergency.
Patients who are using these devices are more engaged with their health. The device collects real-time data, which enables them to stay informed of their health. The devices can monitor things like heart rate, sleep quality, and activity levels. Fitness trackers motivate individuals to get quality sleep and exercise.
Wearable technology can be used to monitor vulnerable patients. Most people use a wearable to monitor the health of vulnerable relatives and family members, such as aging parents and children. Wearable tech can also be used to monitor individuals’ health when they return home after surgery to ensure that there are no complications. This has also eased the burden in the hospitals by monitoring the condition of the patients while they are at home.
Genome Sequencing
Genome sequencing is the future of healthcare. It entails analyzing a genome and providing the individual with genomic information. Gene sequencing is one of the greatest medical technology in the past decade. It enables a doctor to confirm or predict a genetic disease by identifying the genetic variants that may increase an individual’s risk of having a genetic disease. This gives an individual a chance to take preventative measures.
The above technological advancements have improved the lives of individuals across the globe. Individuals can now monitor their health and access medical care remotely. Doctors can now provide accurate medication since they can access the medical history of their patients.
