With constant technological advancements, different facets of our day-to-day routines continue to benefit from these novel developments. From how we interact with others to how we go about our daily activities, technology is and will continue to transform our entire lives.
Consider the healthcare industry, for instance; significant leaps in data processing, mobile technology, medical treatments and research methods have offered healthcare professionals novel ways to carry out medical care much more effectively.
Unsurprisingly, the healthcare industry has lagged behind other sectors in adopting new technology. Strict industrial regulations and the critical nature of healthcare are some of the reasons for its relatively slow adoption rate. Nonetheless, significant improvements have been made in transforming different healthcare areas, and today, it’s easier than ever to find the right doctor for a specific medical condition.
Information technology
We live in the golden age of data, and with information technology, healthcare is safer and much more reliable than before. Following the adoption of electronic records, medical providers are no longer required to write out patient records painstakingly by hand. Data retrieval and processing are even more effective, with these systems mitigating the risks of human errors.
These electronic records are also highly relevant in the realm of medical research. By storing massive amounts of data, professionals can extract, analyze and accurately draw conclusions, all of which are processes that foster a better understanding of different health conditions and their causes.
Information technology also allows for collaboration and seamless communication between various medical providers. Data privacy and digital security are other critical features of this advancement that have greatly improved how efficiently healthcare is provided.
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is leaps and bounds above several other technological advancements, and its impact can also be seen in the healthcare industry through patient-oriented applications such as virtual assistants and medical bots. This application of AI helps improve patients’ experience and engagement in a healthcare setting.
Medical professionals also benefit massively from artificial intelligence. By considering applications such as diagnostics imaging and precision health, among others, it’s evident how well AI improves the process and accuracy of decisions made by medical professionals.
Aside from patients and medical providers, administrative responsibility is a crucial aspect of healthcare and has also been streamlined through administrative-oriented AI. Some predominant applications of AI in administration include real-time documentation, scheduling and electronic records.
In truth, there are so many other applications of AI in the healthcare industry. Its role in medical practice has remained a massive topic of discussion for the past couple of years, and there are no signs to suggest its adoption will slow down.
Robotics
Healthcare professionals can proffer patients more accurate, comprehensive and quality care through medical robots. The sheer number of patients in medical institutions can prove challenging for medical practitioners to handle, but with the advancements in robotics, these difficulties can be somewhat assuaged.
For instance, nurses must perform many basic activities daily, and while these are critical tasks, their mundane nature makes them physically and mentally tiring. This is where nursing robots come in, while also addressing short staffing. These robots engage in various tasks such as venipuncture, checking a patient’s vitals, diagnostics and scheduling, among other functions.
Robots used in healthcare institutions differ based on their algorithm complexity. Some sophisticated robots are capable of accurately engaging in precise surgical operations. Robot companions, exoskeletons and microbots are just some of the other numerous applications of robotics in healthcare.
Software
Healthcare software has helped streamline medical processes and improve efficiency in medical institutions. Advancements in this technology have helped various medical, administrative and operational procedures to improve patients’ health outcomes and experiences.
The adoption of software in healthcare is evident in different critical processes. Medical scheduling software can automate the scheduling process for patients, while patient engagement software helps include a patient in their treatment plans. Diagnostics and telemedicine are some other aspects of healthcare that have been improved by software technology.
The internet
The internet has played a significant role in improving overall healthcare quality. This technology’s real-time, interconnective nature makes it possible for medical providers to access a vast selection of up-to-date information quickly and conveniently.
According to the National Institute of Health, the internet remains a priceless resource for medical information among patients globally. With a quick internet search, patients are connected to reliable sources that give accurate answers to questions and queries relating to their health.
Additionally, the platform created by the internet has also allowed for telemedicine. This aspect of healthcare features remote diagnostics and treatment of patients over the internet or through other forms of telecommunication channels. Healthcare facilities can also conveniently establish contact with patients without geographical limitations through social media.
Some medical institutions incorporate websites that provide immediate contact with medical professionals. All in all, it’s so much easier to reach a broader population and get quality medical treatment and diagnostics through the internet. As this technology continues to advance, so also will its level of adoption globally.
Aside from the clinical setting, educational institutions have also benefited from the opportunity created by the internet. Medical professionals can enroll in a wide variety of online programs and improve their competency in various medical fields. One such example is Baylor University’s online DNP programs.
At Baylor University, registered nurses with a BSN or MSN are offered the optimal pathway to prepare for the highest level of nursing practice. The Doctor of Nursing Practice program gives nursing professionals the knowledge and competency to become leaders capable of shaping and improving patient outcomes, policies and processes.
It’s an excellent time for adopting and benefitting from technological advancements, particularly in an industry as critical as healthcare. Without a doubt, more and more development will come with time, making the entire medical landscape more fast-paced, compelling and patient-friendly than ever before. And with this, healthcare service can only get better from here.
