In today's rapidly progressing healthcare landscape, digital healthcare has emerged as a transformative force. Fueled by the Covid-19 pandemic, digital healthcare makes huge strides forward like never before - to improve patient outcomes, streamline processes, and enhance the efficiency of healthcare systems. But what exactly is digital healthcare, and why is it so important?
Digital healthcare encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies and innovations aimed at revolutionising the way healthcare services are delivered. From electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine to wearable devices and mobile health apps, digital healthcare leverages the power of technology to improve access, efficiency and the quality-of-care patients receive. By digitising medical records, facilitating telehealth consultations, and enabling real-time Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), digital healthcare promises diagnostic accuracy and enhanced patient / provider engagement – ultimately, creating a better patient experience and saving lives in the process.
Examples of the integration of digital technologies in the healthcare field can be seen across many areas of healthcare delivery. With the adoption of the internet and mobile devices, patients and providers now have a wealth of information and resources at their fingertips. In addition to health information, digital health tools such as RPM and health tracking apps enable patients to play a more proactive role in managing their care. For example, utilising RPM devices for virtual wards, also known as 'hospital at home' - where healthcare providers can track the patients’ vitals (in real-time), reducing emergency room visits and overall hospitalisations. In a recent digitalhealth article, it noted work in Airedale, UK, 'on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where they’ve reduced emergency admissions by up to 50% in their cohort of over 4,000 patients, and Frimley Health and Care ICB where they have focused on the highest risk and most deprived patients in their patch, supporting them with remote monitoring.
A digital-first healthcare approach prioritises digital solutions for the delivery of healthcare services. By leveraging digital tools such as telemedicine, remote monitoring, and predictive analytics, healthcare providers can deliver timely interventions, improve care coordination, and optimise outcomes for patients. For example, using a device such as a connected-pacemaker, providers can now leverage a mobile app to monitor a patient's heart health in real time. The Covid-19 pandemic has also led to an increased demand for wearable devices and telehealth services. In fact, by 2029 the global wearable healthcare market is likely going to become a $169 billion industry, up from $42.6 billion in 2023.
A digital first healthcare approach emphasises preventive care and continuous monitoring, all facilitated by digital technologies. Digital-first healthcare holds the promise of ensuring that healthcare services are more accessible, efficient, and patient-centered.
While digital healthcare offers many benefits, it also comes with its own challenges and drawbacks. Some of the key disadvantages include:
Privacy and Security Concerns
With the increasing digitisation of health records and medical data, there is an ever-present concern around the privacy and security of sensitive patient information. The collection, storage, and sharing of health data remains a top concern in the fight against cybersecurity threats and data breaches.
Technical Challenges and Reliability
Technical challenges such as interoperability, complexities of data integrations and system reliability can hinder adoption of healthcare technology. Ensuring the reliability and quality of digital healthcare systems is critical to preventing disruptions in care and putting patients at ease.
Accessibility and Digital Divide
Not all individuals have access to digital technologies. The digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not, can intensify health inequality. Organisations like Grandpad are helping to bridge this gap by connecting vulnerable groups like seniors with family and vital caregivers through robust IoT connectivity solutions.
The future of digital health looks promising as technological advancements continue to shape the way healthcare is delivered, experienced, and perceived. By embracing the power of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics, digital healthcare has the potential to enhance the quality, accessibility, and affordability of healthcare for all. If you are interesting to learning more about one on this advancements, virtual wards - view our on-demand webinar on how health professionals can contribute to the successful implementation and operation of a virtual ward, improving patient outcomes and expanding the reach of healthcare services.
Ready to explore the possibilities of connected health with KORE? Contact us today to learn more about our digital healthcare solutions and how we can help you harness the power of technology to transform healthcare delivery.
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