We are currently in an era in which artificial intelligence, the internet of things, and machine learning are all intertwined so closely we involuntary embrace them. Internet of Things (IoT) particularly has impacted lifestyle and the way trade is conducted on a global level.
In all its brilliance, IoT technology is truly making a difference in the healthcare industry. The technology has the potential to radically revolutionize the entire industry. Its penetration is already being witnessed globally as traditional practices and instruments are replaced with cutting-edge, new, and accurate IoT devices.
The B2B spend on IoT technologies such as apps and other solutions is expected to cross USD 250 billion in near future. Of this 250 billion, USD 15 billion is expected to be spent exclusively for the healthcare industry, proving that in a year, IoT will completely revolutionize the industry. With this spending, IoT devices will increase from an estimated 15 billion in 2015 to an expected 50 billion in the coming future.
Here are a few expected IoT healthcare trends that may help healthcare providers:
The benefits of IoT technology have impacted the healthcare industry greatly. From wearables that monitor heart rate, check blood pressure and blood sugar, to smart pillboxes, IoT devices have proliferated the entire healthcare industry.
According to a report, the revolution will be along the lines of analytics which will thereby increase data relevance while decreasing the time users invest in amassing the data. Also, the industry will see something new on the lines of digital health advisors. These advisors will function as personalized health coaches to individuals who have chronic illnesses. These health advisors help in maintaining a balanced lifestyle and improve mental health.
Additionally, IoT technology saves patients a visit to the doctor, which can be expensive in some parts of the world. The tech allows for remote monitoring. And a certain amount of self-medication is possible with such devices.
What does improved healthcare actually mean, in terms of IoT tech?
Enhanced disease management – It monitors the patient health in real-time. This allows for accurate and prompt diagnosis of certain diseases.
Better treatment results – with IoT, timely treatment is assured. IoT devices via the cloud let healthcare providers constantly and consistently check up on their patients. This helps them make informed and timely decisions.
Decrease in treatment costs – in many parts of the world, healthcare is very expensive. IoT helps solve this challenge. mHealth apps can let patients in need of constant monitoring, discharge early. This would mean a decrease in hospital stays and expensive treatments.
Improvement in patient experience – with a decrease in costs, instant disease diagnosis, and a promise of better treatment, you can enhance the entire patients journey. This will only increase the trust patients place in their doctors.
The thing about technology is that, while it has many aspects going for it, there is always something against it! IoT tech has some risks associated with it especially in the healthcare sector:
Security Breaches:
One of the main concerns is that of security. Similar to any network, IoT devices are effectively one large network. These devices transmit and receive PHI – personal health information. PHI, if fallen in the wrong hands can be dangerous. Hackers and data snoopers are always on the prowl to get sensitive information.
However, there are certain regulations and statutes you need to adhere for any IoT or mHealth device or app. Encryption still has the most importance.
Patient Privacy:
With pacemakers and other such implantable devices being shifted onto the IoT platform, the need for traditional or otherwise bulky systems or processes is avoided. The new age pacemakers can be monitored using Wi-Fi. Doctors can track their patients implanted devices and receive notifications or alerts in case there is a complication with the device of the patient.
However, these devices are not secure themselves. As we saw in October 2016, a massive Directed Denial of Service attack proved that all unsecured IoT devices can turn into a bot-net! This provides hackers the chance to attack the servers from various IP addresses. Hackers can infect the devices with malware or virus and turn these devices obsolete.
By simply changing and/or updating security protocols, you can resolve these issues. Authorities have set up much-needed regulations for a healthcare app. If a device or app is compliant with these regulations, it makes it impossible for hackers to gain access. Get in touch with a healthcare app development company.
