What are the Newest Hospital Technologies?

The healthcare industry is ripe for some major changes. From patient care and treatment to research and marketing, there are endless opportunities to use technology to deliver more accurate, efficient, and quick interventions at the right moment in a patient’s care. Here are some of the newest hospital technologies and their uses.

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the newest hospital technologies today. It is becoming more sophisticated at doing what humans do, but in a precise, quick and affordable way. AI can help in medical diagnosis, mental and behavioral health, medical marketing, human resource management and more.

newest-hospital-technologies-artificial-intelligence-Ai-medicine-doctor-healthcare-industry-solutions

Hospitals are now using AI in HR management to streamline workflows. This will allow health care providers to serve maximum patients on any given day without compromising quality. Hospitals are also integrating AI systems to the workflow and scheduling software to allow for real-time adjustments whenever appointments and cancelations come in.

In addition to optimizing workflows, AI is also helping in-clinic decision support systems. It uses electronic health data to get a decision-making outline for enhancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of different illnesses based on treatment history patterns, health, and demographics.

AI is also widely used in:

Robotic technology

Robotics, like AI, is quickly changing the healthcare landscape. While the history of robots in healthcare dates back to 1985, there have been massive improvements in the area. Thanks to advances in sensor and motion control technologies, robots are way more autonomous and precise than in the age of PUMA 200. They are not only capable of helping but performing complex surgeries themselves.

medical-robotics-surgery-robot-doctor-hospital-patient-health-tech-technology-WytCote

The integration of robots into healthcare operations offers a range of benefits:

Robots are widely used in orthopedics and surgery. In 2019, a surgeon leveraged robotics and 5G internet to perform remote surgery on the brain of a Parkinson’s patient who was nearly 1,900 miles away.

This new technology plays a vital role in creating new care models for the growing senior population. It also solves the challenge of delivering quality solutions to new and underserved markets. In both cases, robotics helps facilities to cut down costs. And the best part is that the current robotic systems are pretty impressive. Surgeons can do more operations in comparable time as before, but with higher success rates.

Blockchain

Blockchain is one of the newest and most important technologies in the world. It is a time-stamped series of unchangeable records of information managed by a network of computers instead of a centralized authority.

Blockchain has extensive uses and applications in healthcare:

Ledger technology can also help manage and prevent future pandemics. This is especially critical, considering how COVID-19 has put the healthcare system to its greatest test of the century. Healthcare systems have had a challenge storing and circulating data in real-time. But now, the CDC in collaboration with IBM and WHO is set to use blockchain to monitor, store, and distribute sensitive data in real-time to facilities for effective and uniform management of the virus.

Other common uses of blockchain technology in healthcare include ownership and security of digital assets, fixing digital display advertising and changing data collections.

Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)

IoMT refers to all medical devices and applications that can connect to the health care data technology system using the internet. The technology facilitates the transition from reactive-to-preventative patient-oriented care.

The IoMT sector is fast-growing and has multiple innovations underway. From patient diagnostic machines to smart monitors, radical solutions are being created to take care of the health care challenges.

blockchain-data-technology-internet-of-medical-things-hospitals-doctors-healthcare-industry

According to Deloitte, the IoMT market is projected to hit the $158.1 billion mark in 2022. Some common uses of IoMT include:

Virtual reality and Augmented Reality 

From improving the patient experience to changing the way medical students learn, these new technologies transform the way things are done in hospitals. Virtual and augmented reality technologies have the potential to make surgical planning easier. Even the most experienced surgeon may come across surprises when performing surgery. But virtual reality and augmented reality may make those instances less common.

The ability to see the inside of the human body in VR is useful to patients and doctors alike. VR allows surgeons to educate patients about their surgical plan. This enhances the understanding of treatment, leading to more patient satisfaction.

Additionally, VR has the unique ability to transport patients to an entirely different place. So, doctors use it to create robust simulations of scenarios where psychological difficulties happen. This cuts out the need for therapists to accompany patients on a trip to a tall building or market place for real-life situations. Other AR/VR uses include:

Personalized mobile applications

Mobile apps are not only great for patient engagement but monitoring and treatment as well. There are vast patient scenarios that use mobile apps in 2020. For instance, one can schedule appointments, check-in, upload medical records, or even get test results through apps.

healthcare-app-application-data-management-doctor-nurse-patient-care-hospital-clinic

Apps help hospitals reduce operational costs, thanks to their ability to relieve some pressure on caregivers, receptionist duties and waiting times. Other common uses of apps include communication and healthcare marketing – helping hospitals get in front of customers. And with the widespread use of mobile devices, app use is only set to increase in the coming years.

Precision medicine

Precision medicine is a new hospital technology that allows doctors to select therapies and medicines to treat patients based on their medical and genetic make-up. Personalization makes treatment more effective. It attacks problem areas (like tumors) based on the patient’s specific proteins and genes. This makes it easy for cancer to be destroyed by treatment.

Other than cancer treatment, precision medicine is also effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It uses the same mechanism to destroy RA's vulnerable genes, weakening the disease and reducing symptoms.

3D printing

3D printers are among the newest technologies on the market today. Experts use these printers to create implants and joints used in surgeries. 3D prosthetics are especially popular, thanks to their unprecedented levels of comfort and mobility. These solutions are usually highly personalized, thus match up the patient’s exact measurements. Other uses of 3D printing in healthcare include printing pills containing multiple drugs and even creating human cells and tissue.

 

How Can Technology Help Improve Elder Care?

The use of smart, internet-powered devices is becoming the way of life among the young and old alike. For the elderly, advanced technology and smart devices make everyday tasks easier. It also improves their overall quality of life. Technologies like wearables, implants, cameras, GPS, and smartphones allow seniors to be free and more independent. So, how can technology help improve elder care?

Today, companies are coming up with vast care options to cater to the growing elderly population. In 2019, about 16.5% of the US population was 65 or older, and the number is set to reach 22% by 2050, according to Statista.

According to Pew research, of seniors 65 years or more:

Understanding technology

elder-care-assisted-living-quality-of-life-senior-living-community-IoT
Seniors are more connected to technology than they ever have been before.

Technology involves the use of using scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. It draws upon such subjects as applied science, pure science, engineering, and industrial arts. In senior care, technology solves problems like lack of mobility, loneliness, losing hearing or vision and memory loss.

Rapidly emerging technological advances hold great potential for the seniors and their caregivers in navigating the physical, cognitive, and social changes that come with aging. Here are some ways technology help improve elder care.

Assistive technology can take over some parts of human care

The elders who have difficulty communicating, getting around, or handling routine tasks can benefit from assistive technology. Assistive technology is a tool or service that helps the elderly with safety, mobility, and daily schedules. It can be a magnifying glass that assists with reading or an amplification device for better hearing and so on. Other examples of assistive technologies include:

For the elderly, assisted devices mean the difference between being able to live independently and having to get long-term home care or join an assisted living facility. These devices play a big role in helping older adults perform simple day-to-day activities like going to the bathroom and bathing.   

Assistive technology can also lower the cost of care for seniors and their loved ones. Although families may need to pay a monthly fee for some tools, the cost is still much lower than that of nursing home, assisted living, or home health care.

GPS devices can prevent seniors from wandering and getting lost

From bracelets to necklaces and key chains to watches, and everything in between, GPS trackers allow caregivers to monitor seniors in real-time. GPS trackers made for the elderly emphasize on functions that improve safety, including health metrics and emergency buttons

A GPS tracker can be a lifesaver for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, or other mental health conditions that make them prone to wandering. It provides peace of mind in knowing that you can find your loved one if they get lost or go astray. And the best part is that the latest GPS devices come with some incredible additional features. Most of them double as fitness devices. Others have audio monitoring, reminder alerts, safe zone alerts, two-way calling, and SOS emergency buttons to make the senior’s life easier.

Virtual assistants (VA) for helping in daily activities

Although robots can't give hugs yet, they can be a nice companion for seniors who lead independent lives. Robotic assistants enhance senior lives by enabling them to enjoy positive and meaningful interactions without limitations like getting tired or being unavailable.

virtual-assistant-robotics-senior-elder-care-technology-IoMT-internet-of-things
Virtual Assistants may be able to perform various physical functions in the very near future.

Smart devices like Google Home, Alexa, and Apple HomePod can help seniors in all facets of their daily lives, from searching something online to compiling a dictated grocery list and much more.

In homes fitted with smart devices like smart locks or thermostats, a VA can increase security or regulate temperature through voice commands. Seniors can also contact their loved ones without having to dial or memorize their numbers. What’s more, virtual assistants let seniors to listen to weather forecasts, audiobooks and stay up to date with current events.

Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and remote monitoring

Analysis shows that people aged 85 plus years cost almost seven times more to care for, than those in their 30s. But thanks to the Internet of Medical Things and robotics, it's possible to nullify some of these costs.

IoMT technology is not only enhancing the seniors' experience by minimizing the need for in-person hospital visits; it is also reducing costs and strain on our nation’s hospital systems. Estimates by Goldman Sachs indicate that IoMT will lead to a $300 billion savings in yearly healthcare expenditures. According to the forecast, the cost reductions come from:

IoMT systems and apps, including virtual home assistants, tracking wearables, personal emergency response, and portable diagnostics devices, can offer better care and non-intrusive remote monitoring tools.

Portable diagnostic devices allow seniors to perform urine or blood tests from the comfort of their homes. These devices are user-friendly and intuitive, which makes it easy for seniors to understand and share results with doctors.

elder-care-technology-data-security-helathcare-savings
Portable diagnostic devices allow seniors to transmit data, securely from the comfort of their own homes.

Again, most seniors have one or more non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases. For heart patients, heart vital-tracking wearables like heart monitors can track arrhythmia and other issues and notify the doctors immediately, should there be a concern. IoMT devices can also monitor blood glucose, heart rate, urinary frequency, bed exits, steps, sleep cycles and other vitals.

The capabilities of IoMT will lead to fewer mistakes, more accurate diagnosis, and an overall lower cost of care. Coupled with smartphone apps, IoMT technology allows the seniors to send their personal health information, securely to physicians to better monitor diseases and prevent chronic illnesses.

Smartphones for communication and emergency alerts

Smartphones make it easy for the elderly to keep tabs with their loved ones – whether through calls, messaging or even social media. Smartphones come with many different applications that can make your loved one's life convenient and enjoyable. They have larger screens and apps for voice capabilities, internet banking, maps, and music/videos to meet their different needs.

There are also a couple of senior safety applications that you can install in these smartphones. These apps make it easy to track their activities/inactivity, low battery, high ambient noise, location, and medications. Some even send fall alerts in real-time, allowing you to know when your loved one is in trouble. 

Virtual reality escapes to prevent social isolation

Virtual Reality (VR) technology is easily assessable, affordable, and equally effective. Currently, some companies are working with senior living communities to build positive shared experiences through virtual reality. This will allow seniors – particularly those who can't leave their houses due to critical health issues – to experience the fun, awe and freedom by simply wearing a headset.

10 New Medical Technologies for 2020

The medical industry has grappled with inefficient processes, rising healthcare costs, poor quality of care, poor healthcare access and lack of patient-specific treatment for far too long. But the consistent advances in medical technologies have created huge shifts in the way solutions are rendered.

Today, physicians are able to diagnose and treat patients better. Patients, on the other hand, can access quality, affordable and timely care, sometimes, from the comfort of their own homes.

According to industry analysts, increased accessibility of care is one of the most tangible ways medical technology has changed healthcare. But still, areas like patient care, research, education, and disease control are also seeing massive transformation, thanks to technology.

Healthcare is ever-changing and we expect to see further evolutions in the coming years. But here are 10 new medical technologies for 2020.

1. 5G capability 

5G is a new medical technology trend that’s set to transform medicine and healthcare delivery. Although still in its infancy, 5G is set to transform the healthcare sector by boosting capacity and speed while reducing latency. 5G networks will facilitate telemedicine initiatives, support remote patient monitoring tools, transmit large medical images, and enable more sophisticated uses of Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. Additionally, it will allow for faster communication and downloads on smartphones and tablets used in healthcare settings. Ericsson predicts a $76 billion revenue opportunity in 2026 for those addressing healthcare changes with 5G networks.

2. 3D printing

3D printing is a way of converting virtual 3D models into real-time 3D objects. This medical technology is widely used in the manufacturing of medical devices like prosthetic limbs, orthopedic and dental implants, medicine educational models, and surgical instruments. Additionally, 3D bioprinting is used to develop personalized and precision pharmaceuticals as well as living human tissue or cells for use in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Patient-specific 3D printed models are becoming increasingly useful in today’s practice of customized treatments and precision medicine – which explains its uptake. The healthcare 3D printing market is estimated to surpass the $5.5billion mark by 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.5% within that time.

medical-technologies-3D-printing-organs-training-surgery-doctor-hospital-United-States-advancement

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI-powered medical technologies are quickly transforming into applicable solutions in the healthcare sector. Deep learning algorithms can handle the increasing amounts of data delivered by smartphones, implants, wearable devices, and other mobile tracking sensors in vast areas of medicine. At the moment, experts are using AI to detect epilepsy seizures, atrial fibrillation, hypoglycemia, as well as diagnose diseases based on medical imaging or histopathological tests. AI and machine learning will play an even bigger role in the coming years, helping healthcare experts with everything from note-taking to oncology screenings. In fact, it is projected to grow from $4.9 billion to 45.2 billion from 2020-2026 at a CAGR of 44.9%.

4. Surgical Robots

Surgical robots are computer-controlled, self-powered devices that can be programed to help in the manipulation and positioning of surgical instruments. Surgeons use robotic surgery because it offers greater visualization and precision. It gives them better flexibility, control, and accuracy. Unlike traditional surgery with incisions, robotic surgery allows for shorter hospitalization, minimal scarring, reduced pain and discomfort, and faster recovery times. In 2019, the surgical robot market was valued at $4.97 billion, but it’s projected to record a CAGR of 21.9% from 2020-2025 (forecast period).

medical-robotics-surgical-robot-tech-AI-VR-healthcare-industry

5. Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality in healthcare

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in the healthcare market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 30.2% over the period 2018-2023, according to a new Market Research Future report. These new medical technologies for 2020 offer feasible solutions to many challenges in the healthcare industry, including patient diagnosis, medical student training, surgery assistance, and body mapping. AR & VR are broadly used to improve surgical processes, treat neurological and psychiatric conditions, and also as part of hospice care.

6. Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)

IoMT is a group of medical devices and applications connected to healthcare IT systems through online computer networks. The medical devices “things,” which are internet-enabled, allow machine-to-machine communication, that’s the basis of IoMT technology. In 2016, IoMT revenues amounted to $24 billion globally, with the number estimated to rise to over $135 billion by 2025. IoMT not only makes patient care personalized and cost-effective, it also decreases hospital admissions since medical professionals can monitor and even treat patients remotely. The rise of implantable and wearable devices in healthcare has made preventative care accessible to patients around the globe. Please check this website to learn more about IoT.

7. Cloud computing 

The cloud provides on-demand computing by leveraging cutting-edge technology to access, deploy, and use network data, resources, and applications. The broad adoption of cloud computing in the medical sector goes beyond storing data in the cloud. Healthcare professionals are now using this medical technology to optimize workflows, gain efficiencies, offer customized solutions, and lower the cost associated with service delivery. Driven by the increasing adoption of IoT and big data analytics, research shows that the industry is expected to reach $35.0 billion by 2022.

8. Telemedicine

Telemedicine involves the use of digital data and communication technologies like smartphones, wearables, and computers to access healthcare solutions remotely and manage health conditions. This medical technology is widely embraced for a range of reasons, including making health care accessible in remote areas and making services more convenient and readily available for those with limited time, mobility, or transport options. M-health also improves communication and coordination of care among doctors and patients and offers support for self-management of healthcare. According to the Market Research Future analysis, the global telemedicine market is estimated to reach $16.17 billion, with a 22.74% CAGR from 2017-2024.

telehealth-telemedicine-5G-medical-technologies-artifical-intelligence-machine-learning

9. Chatbots

Chatbots have become prevalent in recent years, mostly because of dramatic technological advances in machine learning and natural language processing. Today’s bots are more responsive, smarter, and more useful, and the best is yet to come. Chatbots mimic spoken or written human speech to simulate interaction or conversation with a real person. These powerful tools can take care of client engagement, lead generation, dispatching information on drugs and medications, and even help with medical equipment. In the face of the Coronavirus, chatbots have been a natural choice for disseminating critical health information to vast populations.

10. Predictive analytics

Predictive analytics is a medical technology that uses past data to make future predictions, customizing patient care. An experienced medical expert can use a person’s demographic, recent medical history, and behaviors to predict the future. For instance, they can identify patients with an increased risk of developing a condition and address the precursors before it’s late. The predictive model also allows providers to react quickly to changes in the patient’s vital and detect deterioration at an early stage before the symptoms are apparent. The global predictive analytics market was worth $2.2 billion in 2018 and is estimated to reach $8.46 billion by 2025 at a CAGR of 21.2%, according to Allied Market Research.

IoT Uses for the Healthcare Industry

The healthcare industry has always been at the forefront of emerging trends. Today's healthcare solutions have been elevated to levels that were deemed impossible just a few years ago. A report by WHO revealed that the global life expectancy rose by 5.5 years between 2000 and 2016. And if you remember correctly, Electronic Medical Records (EMR) made a significant impact a decade ago, but today, telemedicine, robots, wearables, and most importantly, the Internet of Things (IoT), are setting some very positive trends.

With the 2020 outbreak of Coronavirus that has closed down borders, forced businesses and schools to close and left many under quarantine or social isolation to flatten the curve, the medical industry is just beginning to fully realize the benefits of IoT. IoT devices can alleviate some big strains on healthcare practitioners by making virtual appointments possible and ensuring high-risk patients don’t leave their homes to get their routine care.

It isn't easy to find an industry with more potential for the Internet of Things than healthcare. IoT technologies that utilize data from sensors provide lots of benefits on all levels, starting from disease prevention and early diagnosis to health monitoring and in-patient treatment.

Internet-connected devices can give healthcare providers patient medical data in real-time. This technology can literally save lives and help doctors provide their patients with best-in-class care.

A recent study published on the MarketWatch projects that the world market for IoT in healthcare will grow from $82.3 billion to $242.1 billion for 2020 and 2025. According to the report, the main factors fueling investment into IoT are; growing cloud-based infrastructure, advanced and precise results, and availability of more affordable smart devices.

The healthcare sector quickly integrated a range of IoT solutions by creating the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). Devices like pacemakers and heart monitors gather and send patient information through different networks to medical caregivers for analysis, monitoring, and remote configuring.

Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)

IoMT describes all medical devices and applications "or things" that connect to healthcare computer systems through the internet. It is built upon several technologies, including IoT connectivity, sensors, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Wi-Fi enabled medical devices allow machine-to-machine communication that's the basis of IoMT. These devices then connect to cloud platforms, where the collected data can be analyzed and stored.

The capabilities of IoMT result in fewer mistakes, more accurate diagnoses, all at a lower cost of care. Besides, when paired with smartphone apps, the technology can collect data from patients and process it automatically, identifying precursors of disease that can be treated, and thus preventing it from even progressing into early stages.

IoMT is not only enhancing patient experience but is also helping to cut down costs. Goldman Sachs estimates that this technology will save the healthcare sector $300 billion in yearly expenditures, mainly through improved medication adherence and remote patient monitoring.

Technology should make our lives easier. IoT use in the healthcare field will not only save precious time and money, it can also help save lives.

IoT uses for the healthcare industry

Enhances efficiency

Long duration between visits, inadequate data collection, long waiting times, and many other challenges can prevent even the best hospitals and doctors from offering the highest quality care possible. One of the most widely-applied applications of this technology is the IoT-powered sensors on healthcare devices and hospital wristbands. These sensors gather patient data and convey it through cloud-based applications that communicate it to the doctor, in real-time. Since it minimizes the need to gather and send data manually, it reduces the waiting times for patients and allows caregivers to focus on other critical aspects.

Healthcare facilities can also use IoT-powered medical equipment and devices to track patients' glucose levels, blood pressure, heart rates, and other health data. When this data is tracked and reported in real-time, it helps prevent severe medical conditions entirely or find them at the early stages.

Minimize medical errors

IoT use in the healthcare industry allows for more effective patient monitoring and helps minimize the risk for human error. As it turns out, avoidable human errors result in thousands of deaths annually. 

Traditionally, patient progress was noted on paper and depended on the judgment of a doctor to direct concerns to appropriate staff. But now, doctors can record and save patient data in the cloud. Unlike humans, machines don't make typing errors when recording data. 

So, healthcare workers can use IoT-powered devices like wristbands to verify the identity of the patient. He or she can check for allergies along with other critical information like lab findings, observations, and electronic medication charts to avoid any mix-ups. Artificial intelligence can be used along with IoMT technology to further assist in diagnosis and treatment.

Patient empowerment 

IoT, along with the immense amount of data online, gives patients more control, not just for the data collected from their body, but of the knowledge required to clarify their findings. 

When patients have diagnostic information at their disposal, they can adhere to medical plans personalized to reflect changes in their condition and it allows for some self-management. Those with heart issues, for instance, weigh themselves routinely to monitor fluid retention trends to guide treatment. But now, they can use smart scales, which relay data to a medication chart in their phones, and can adjust the recommended dosage of drugs as per the parameters pre-set by the doctor.

Reduced costs

Applications like smart building controls, surveillance systems, financial and health information analytics can help healthcare facilities to reduce costs by up to 25-30% and help them to get better ROI from their data assets. IoT solves basic operational and infrastructure problems from controlling thermostats to lower energy costs, to improving surveillance on patients, staff and properties with cameras and sensors, and so on.

Additionally, IoT offers healthcare facilities with instant access to their assets through intelligent gateways and sensors. Analytics used in the big data obtained from these assets will address challenges and help facilities to deliver value-added solutions to their patients and clients.

healthcare-rural-areas-IoT-health-care-medical-technology-data-protection-patient-privacy-doctor-hospital-provider-insurance

Healthcare in rural areas

One of the main challenges that people in rural areas face when it comes to getting quality health is access. IoT solves this problem by making communication between patient and doctor easier, when they can’t meet physically.

With IoT devices, doctors can monitor patient data and also address a vast array of health concerns. Although this isn't a replacement for in-person visits, it can suffice, especially in cases where the patient doesn't have time or resources to travel for hours to access a healthcare provider.

Supply chain management 

By saturating the entire supply chain – from outsourcing of raw materials to production to final delivery to the end-user – with data points connecting these devices to robust analytics engines, the Internet of Things uncovers processes that were previously hidden. This makes it easier to identify inefficiency, hitches and redundancies in the supply chain.

IoT use in the healthcare industry enables leaders to make data-driven decisions when making corrections. The sensors also ensure that facilities only receive the correct inventory they ordered from the manufacturer and that they are not counterfeit.

Remote equipment diagnostics

Medical equipment OEMs have been leveraging remote diagnostic technology to track and manage the health of costly medical equipment, including MRI, X-ray, Ct-Scan, radiation therapy and ultrasound equipment. These tools are expensive to maintain, and proactive monitoring and remote diagnostics can significantly enhance downtime costs.