The Impact of Disruptive Technologies on Healthcare

The usage of technology in healthcare was always inevitable. However, in recent years, the trend has picked up pace after the breakthrough of Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and smart home technologies

Fremont, CA: The healthcare industry is one of the essential services in the world. As digitization grips all kinds of industries, the healthcare sector has benefitted hugely. Disruptive technologies have transformed healthcare as we know it. Healthcare services are not highly automated and leverage digital technology to ensure more efficient and faster treatments.

The IT Journey

The usage of technology in healthcare was always inevitable. However, in recent years, the trend has picked up pace after the breakthrough of Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and smart home technologies. These technologies have spurred on the next wave of innovation in the sector. A significant shortage of physicians and nurses combined with the rapidly aging baby boomer population has lead to an increase in demand for telehealth services and in-home tech. AI-enabled devices have come a long way in helping radiologists detect diseases even before any significant symptoms, thereby speeding up patient scans. At the same time, it is essential to realize that technology's role is to support existing physicians and not replace them. However far we embed these technologies, the human touch outweighs any other value.

Data Accessibility and Data Security

Technology all around has led to a data-driven world. Big data, data analytics, cloud computing, and edge cloud computing produce large amounts of data that need to be stored and processed. The same is applicable in the healthcare sector, where wearable medical devices, smart home technologies, and at home, generic tests generate vast piles of data. While more data may result in better decision making, it also carries enormous risks. When it comes to medical records, it is essential to maintain privacy. Each patient's medical records are stored in files that are vulnerable to a data breach. In a highly interconnected world like today's, data security is highly essential.

Consumerization

The patient is no longer just a receiver of treatment. In fact, they are very involved in the process and take a keen interest in being aware of all the steps taken. With access to various sources of information, the patient may consider himself as knowledgeable as a doctor. It is essential to ensure that the patient cooperates with the care team for their treatment. This can be achieved only by establishing faith and a healthy relationship between patient and doctor.

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