Top 10 Healthcare Technology Trends in 2023
Healthcare technology is a rapidly expanding field that is transforming the way we provide care. Accelerated technological progress in healthcare has improved patient care and helped healthcare businesses to reduce costs. According to the Global Healthcare Outlook by Deloitte, there are two critical directions of technological disruption in healthcare: virtual health delivery and fundamental healthcare digital transformation initiatives. Telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and other new technology for healthcare have become essential in delivering healthcare services. And in the upcoming years, we can witness even more technological innovations in healthcare.
In this article, we’ll overview ten digital trends in healthcare that are going to disrupt healthcare service delivery this year.
Trend #1. AI and ML-enabled Healthcare Data Analytics
By using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms, healthcare providers can analyze patient data more efficiently, identify trends, and develop personalized treatment plans. Implementing AI and ML algorithms in daily healthcare practice can allow clinicians better predict patient outcomes and timely intervene before a certain health issue gets too critical. With the growing amount of patient data, AI and ML can help healthcare providers to make more informed clinical decisions and increase patient satisfaction. The worth of the global healthcare AI market is forecasted to reach $188 billion by 2030 compared to $11 billion in 2021.
Trend #2. Telemedicine
Thanks to telemedicine app development healthcare practitioners can deliver quality care remotely and reduce the need for in-person visits. Patients can access healthcare services through video consultations, mobile apps, and remote patient monitoring applications. Virtual health services can be especially useful for patients with chronic conditions who require regular check-ups and close monitoring.
Trend #3. Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)
The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) sector comprises the integration of diverse medical devices, such as wearable fitness devices, sensors, and other connected medical devices, with healthcare systems. IoMT enables healthcare providers to monitor patients’ health remotely, predict potential health issues, and deliver personalized care. IoMT devices can also help patients manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, by tracking vital signs and providing real-time feedback to healthcare providers. We can expect to see more healthcare providers adopt IoMT devices to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Trend #4. Smart Hospitals
Smart hospitals make use of diverse innovative technologies such as IoMT solutions, AI, robotics, and smart autonomous devices in healthcare to deliver full-service virtual patient care. In 2023, smart hospitals will continue to grow in popularity as they can help healthcare practitioners to make more informed treatment decisions and optimize hospital workflows. Smart hospitals can also improve patient experiences by providing personalized care through the use of wearables and other connected devices. Additionally, healthcare imaging solutions in smart hospitals leverage advanced AI algorithms to enhance diagnostic precision and reduce turnaround times for patients.
Trend #5. Add-on EHR Modules
Electronic health record (EHR) systems are the most widely adopted solutions in the healthcare industry that help healthcare facilities better organize their clinical data. However, EHR systems can be complex and challenging to navigate. That’s why we are seeing a growing demand for add-on EHR modules that can help healthcare providers manage specific workflows more efficiently. For example, population health management modules can help providers identify at-risk patients and proactively manage their care. Telemedicine modules can enable providers to offer remote consultations and monitor patients’ health from a distance. And patient engagement modules can facilitate better communication between patients and their doctors, leading to improved outcomes.
Trend #6. AR and VR Technology
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies can significantly disrupt healthcare services, providing clinicians and patients with completely new experiences. These technologies have many potential applications, such as surgical training, patient education, and even pain management. For example, surgeons can use AR and VR to practice complex procedures in a virtual environment before performing them on real patients. Patients can also use VR to distract themselves from pain during procedures or manage chronic pain without relying on medication.
Trend #7. 3D Printing
3D printing is another exciting healthcare technology trend that is set to make a significant impact in 2023. 3D printing technology allows healthcare providers to create customized medical devices and prosthetics that are tailored to each patient’s specific needs. For example, orthopedic surgeons can use 3D printing to create patient-specific implants that are precisely designed to fit a patient’s anatomy. Dental professionals can also use 3D printing to create custom dental crowns, bridges, and other devices that are more comfortable and durable than traditional alternatives.
Trend #8. Clinical Flow Automation
Clinical flow automation involves using technology to optimize the workflow of healthcare professionals and improve patient outcomes. It aims to reduce the time spent on administrative tasks, improve accuracy, and enhance the overall patient experience. One example of this technology is computerized physician order entry (CPOE), which allows physicians to enter orders electronically, reducing errors and streamlining the order processing time. Another example is automated dispensing systems, which automate the medication prescription process and ensure that the right drug is given to the right patient.
Trend #9. Mobile Health Solutions
Mobile apps in medical practice are becoming increasingly popular as more people use smartphones and tablets to access healthcare information. Mobile health solutions include mobile applications, wearable devices, and telehealth services. With the help of mobile software, patients can easily monitor their health, access their medical records as well as communicate with their doctors from anywhere, at any time. Mobile health solutions also enable healthcare providers to deliver care remotely, improving access to healthcare and reducing the burden on traditional healthcare systems.
Trend #10. Patient-centered Healthcare Services
Patient-centered care means that healthcare services evolve around the patient and are aimed at delivering the most value to patients through personalized treatment plans. It involves providing care that is personalized, coordinated, and responsive to the patient’s needs and preferences. Patient-centered care also focuses on improving the quality of care and patient outcomes. One example of patient-centered care is shared decision-making, which involves patients and healthcare professionals working together on the treatment plan. However, the finalized treatment plan is still approved by the healthcare practitioner to take full responsibility for it.
Conclusion
The healthcare digital trends we’ve discussed in this article will definitely shape the industry in 2023. With the use of AI and ML, IoMT, healthcare practices can elevate healthcare data analytics and generate business insights. The adoption of clinical flow automation and mobile health solutions will also enable healthcare providers to provide care more efficiently and effectively. Finally, patient-centered quality care will become increasingly important as healthcare providers strive to improve the overall patient experience. As the healthcare sector continues to evolve, the technologies will evolve as well, helping healthcare practices reach new levels of quality patient care.
