Visiting a healthcare practice today is very different than it was in 1970. Imagine a time when doctors and patients communicated via landline phones; exchanged information via paper and plastic medical cards; and patient files were stored in physical file cabinets.
Today’s technological advances have brought enormous change to the healthcare industry. Now when you visit your doctor’s office, you can expect to see doctors carrying tablets when doing assessments instead of patient files. Your doctor may recommend that you wear a small device and incorporate 10,000 steps into your daily routine so that your body gets a proper workout. And that’s ust the beginning.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of health information specialists will grow 22 percent through 2022, far faster than the average growth for all occupations in the U.S. The tremendous growth in the health informatics field was spurred in large part by the acceleration of electronic health record (EHR) adoption brought about by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ “meaningful use” incentive program.
According to a recent Tech Republic article, there are ten technologies shaping the future of healthcare. They are:
1. Digital Diagnostics
Making health care more accessible includes providing digital diagnostics options for people who need it, especially those who can’t get to a doctor’s office (e.g., Neurotrack, a software-based Alzheimer’s diagnostic test).
2. Cloud
Cloud services provide a lot of benefits for medical providers, especially in under-developed or rural areas.
3. Ultra-Fast Scans
GE showcased its breakthrough ultra-fast CT scanner earlier this year, which can capture a still image of a heart in one beat.
4. Wearables
Wearable technology is going to play a huge role in health care in years to come. The Consumer Electronics Association reports that sales of fitness trackers and smart watches will reach $1 billion this year.
5. Health Informatics
Electronic records have been shown to save large hospitals anywhere between $37 and $59 million.
6. Digital Therapy
Digital therapy is important for patients who need at-home care, can’t afford to travel to a clinic, or have no way to get to a clinic for therapy.
7. Concierge Medical Services
Startups are making it easier to pay out-of-pocket for on-demand health care services.
8. Networks And Coaching
With mobile technology, it’s easier than ever to have a customized diet or health plan.
9. Self-insurance
With the onset of Affordable Care Act, more consumers have had to manage their own data and health future.
10. Hackathons
Hacking is becoming an increasingly popular tool to solving real world problems, especially in the health care industry.
For more information, read the full Tech Republic article.
