In recent years, developments in technology have had a huge impact on the medical profession. Although technology influences other aspects of 21st-century life including interaction, and workplace management, it is undeniable that technological advances in medicine are changing lives for the better. As our understanding of technology grows, so does our understanding of the mind and body and therefore it is interesting to reflect on how technology is shaping society. For instance, thanks to the advent of X-Ray machines and refinements in surgical practices, technology has helped to make people healthier and has therefore increased life expectancies. So, let us discover 5 fantastic ways that the medical profession is benefitting from technology.
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Electronic Health Records
The digitization of medical records has totally transformed the face of medical admin for good. In the medical field, it is no secret that electronic records can facilitate huge advances in medical diagnostics and treatments. Moreover, whereas previously hospitals had to use disparate information systems, electronic health records make it possible to connect multiple systems to create a coordinated bank of data that can be used to provide integrated and efficient care. Hospitals no longer have to rely on outdated paper-based systems that make it difficult to share and transfer patient records, and therefore administrative efficiency has been enhanced.
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Telemedicine
Telemedicine refers to the practice of caring for patients remotely. Put simply, when the provider and patient cannot be physically present with each other, modern technology has enabled doctors to consult patients by using IT tools. Additionally, physicians can use telemedicine for the transmission of digital imaging, video consultations, and remote medical diagnosis. In rural areas where access to hospitals and other health-related services might be lacking, patients can use a computer to meet virtually with a doctor. Correspondingly, the cost benefits associated with telemedicine are believed to be substantial.
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Remote Monitoring Tools
Monitoring your health from the comfort of your own home is a brilliant way to help hospitals to save money while at the same time reducing any unnecessary visits to the doctor’s office. Nowadays, patients with heart disease can be fitted with pacemakers that automatically send reports and data to remote health center facilities. Monitoring chronic illnesses through technological tools encourages distance healthcare, and this can be beneficial for both patients and healthcare providers.
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Wearable Technology
Similarly, in recent times, the wearable medical device market has soared in popularity. Wearable devices such as wristbands and watches encourage users to take an active role in monitoring their health and are widely used to collect data about serious medical issues. This data can then be used to monitor the health of an individual remotely on a permanent basis.
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Genome Sequencing
Essentially, your genome is your unique sequence of DNA. It is over 3 billion letters long and it is found in almost every cell in your body. Accordingly, personal genomics refers to the sequencing and analysis of someone’s genome and then giving that person his or her genomic information. Corresponding, this data can then be analyzed and used to identify variants that can be indicative of disease.
Ultimately, advances in technology are enabling life-saving procedures and treatments to become commonplace. Virtual healthcare is continuing to revitalize the medical industry and it is exciting to think about what else the future might hold for remote care. By encouraging patients to play an active role in maintaining their health, medical resources can be saved, and the costs of care can be significantly reduced.
Which other developments in technology do you think have changed the medical profession? Get in touch and let us know your thoughts.