In the course of just one year, a sign of the times has become clear: technology is reframing the present and future of healthcare. Telehealth, wearable technology, artificial intelligence, and applications (apps) have become commonplace. The result? Convenient, unique experiences for patients and streamlined processes for healthcare providers. Out of sheer necessity, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the acceleration and widespread utilization of digital technology. In a time when close contact could potentially result in critical health conditions or even death, technology stepped in, bridging the gap to create live-saving connections.

But what does it (really) do for us?

Some may still be on the fence and wonder: Does the influx of these technologies offer a temporary fix or long-term solution? Technology-based trends offer a wide array of long-term benefits, including:

1. Low-risk healthcare visits: Thanks to telehealth and wearable technology, patients can share personal data and visit with healthcare providers using video conferencing, providing them with a fully contactless experience. If they still need to go into the doctor’s office, that initial virtual visit can facilitate the transfer of essential background information. That key element reduces the time needed for an in-person visit, minimizing person-to-person exposure, as well as the number of staff members they come in contact with. This allows healthcare providers to have a more focused, mindful visit with patients and reduces the time that patients need to be away from work or family for their appointment.

2. On-demand care: Telehealth also allows for the convenience of on-demand care. This is a game-changer both for patients with critical conditions as well as those with general wellness concerns. If a patient is unable to travel to the hospital or other care location, whether it be due to illness, capacity rates, or general mobility constraints, they’re still able to speak to a healthcare provider. Remote appointments allow them to get the quality help they need from the comfort and safety of their own home.  

3. Reduced costs for all: With the use of health-and-wellness-based apps increasing consistently, healthcare-associated costs would steadily decline for both patients and providers. Not only do these apps provide the user with a comprehensive view of their own health, they also create a secure environment for data to be shared with a healthcare provider. In fact, a 2018 report by Digital Commerce 360 estimated that the increased use of wellness apps could reduce healthcare costs by up to $7 billion per year. 

4. Personalized healthcare: Health and wellness apps often integrate artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms into their platforms to create a customized experience. When users set up a personal profile to track weight loss, blood sugar, caloric intake, or physical training, the platform adjusts based on each individual’s status. Consider Noom, for example. As users log their daily meals, weight, and workouts, the app adjusts recommended calorie intake and pushes Noom articles that directly relate to their progress. If a user has missed a few days of logging, their next article will likely include the real-life story of someone who “fell off the wagon”, but ultimately lost 15 pounds by getting back and staying on track.

5. Long-term benefits. Technology in the virtual (VR) and augmented reality (AR) spaces is ever-evolving, and the trends that tie them into the healthcare experience will only grow stronger. As with any other novelty item, some digital-based health trends will fall off in the short-term. Those with intelligent integrations that have truly made a difference however, will continue to advance. As patients and providers reap the benefits of reduced costs and more efficient care, overall experiences for both groups will improve consistently over time. 

The reality of virtual healthcare

Based on  a report from Verified Market Research, the virtual reality-healthcare market is projected to be worth over $34 billion in less than 10 years, a significant increase from its $2 billion valuation in 2019. Not only do advancements in healthcare technology open a whole new world for healthcare providers and patients, they increase the potential of expanded collaboration in the development of new drugs as well as the price points assigned to them. 

A clearer, less complicated future

We’re looking at a future state in which the confusing and complicated world of healthcare coverage, access, and costs becomes more transparent. This transparency would bring people from all walks of life to the table, providing them with simplified access to what they need - right from the palm of their hand. Consider what this would mean on a larger scale, five, ten, or fifteen years down the line. Health policy could be better defined, focusing on the people it impacts instead of any particular administration. This would allow for improvement and expansion on a continuous basis as opposed to potentially changing in a drastic manner every four to eight years. With this comes the prospect of an overall well-planned infrastructure and preparedness for future public health crises.

Making consumers the focus

The presence of transparency would also position consumer-focused technology brands in a place where they could answer to the demand for convenience and customization in the healthcare experience. Increased space and success rates for those brands would create a funnel for innovation. The end result: diversified streams of revenue for businesses and  customized healthcare options for consumers. 

Shifting new knowledge into action

Lessons learned and technology developed during the COVID-19 pandemic can be the inspiration for a fully redefined healthcare industry. The new normal is based in virtual and augmented reality, machine learning, and other digital trends that empower consumers to make personalized, educated decisions about their health. Taking this more personal approach could also result in early detection, diagnosis, and intervention, leading to a more efficient world of healthcare overall. 

The bottom line: technology in healthcare can change the world, we just have to take heed.