The role of new technology in an improved healthcare system

Many experts now argue that there is a need to change the way the world views health care. The heavy dependence on clinics, hospitals, and on-care specialists has to be reduced, and people need to realize that the thing they need for an improved care experience may already be within their reach. A part of it may already be in their hands, even.

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Jane Sarasohn-Kahn, a health economist and management consultant, recently wrote a paper for the California Healthcare Foundation on how new technologies can change patient care. On it, she reports that currently available mobile devices and other tools powered by today’s Wi-Fi technologies can be used to help individuals collect data and transmit them for a doctor’s perusal, whenever necessary.

With the widespread use of the sensor devices, which are placed in strategic areas in homes, clothing, or even the patient’s body, the need to stay in hospitals for long periods of time or the need to visit doctors often is lessened. Patients can live within the comfort of their own homes, knowing that their doctors and loved ones will be immediately informed of any developments on their condition.

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As shown on this infographic, the patients themselves can easily peruse their daily records. If they find something amiss, they can just easily consult their doctor through the phone or through video chat. Meanwhile, with the system monitoring their health signals and comparing it with a pre-determined normal range, they can also receive timely reminders on what they can do to normalize their condition.

This system is not yet implemented, but with factors like the falling costs of the sensor technology, the discussions with health specialists, and the rising demand from health consumers for sensor-based devices, the prospects are reportedly bright for the widespread adoption of technology in an improved health care approach.

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Sharon L. Younkin remains dedicated to her work in fostering communities with healthy citizens. Find updates about her work and interests on this Facebook page.