We’ve seen a lot of changes in the healthcare industry in recent years, and this seems set to continue. Some healthcare trends are more noticeable than others, however, with artificial intelligence and virtual reality both on the rise.
In Deloitte’s 2019 global healthcare consumer survey, they found that patients are opening up to the use of technology and VR in healthcare. This is a pretty good indicator of where the industry is heading.
After observing the healthcare industry, we’ve put together a list of the top five healthcare trends. Keep reading to find out what they are.
1. Increased Use of AI
One of the many emerging technologies in healthcare, the increased use of AI is one of the biggest trends to keep an eye on. Threats like fraud and malware can be picked up using technology, and AI can also help patients better manage their care.
There are wearables available for patients to use, as well as chatbots to diagnose less-serious conditions and ailments. Another resource being developed at the moment serves to work with examinations needing to be overlooked by a radiologist before being carried out.
2. Virtual Reality
No, it’s not just for gamers and the most tech-savvy among us. A new technology in healthcare, virtual reality can be a great help for patients suffering from memory-related conditions, and to distract patients who might be uncomfortable or going through treatment.
Another advantage of VR is that it can help professionals imagine and anticipate issues they might come across in surgeries and treatment. It might also be used to help explain a patient’s condition to them in more detail.
3. The Cloud and 5G
When various pathways and platforms are used, it can be difficult to transport information smoothly.
To rectify the problem, cloud-based solutions are becoming more frequently used, and this trend is set to continue. By making information more immediately available, it means that both doctor and patient can view treatment histories and other documents on demand, saving time and energy.
Similarly, the emergence of 5G is set to make it easier to transmit large files, monitor patients, and work remotely. Services will become even easier to obtain – if you’re looking for a workers’ compensation doctor, you’ll be in luck. Combined with the use of the cloud, it has the potential to transform healthcare in the coming years.
4. Rise in Telehealth
Telehealth is already becoming used more, as Medicare Advantage coverage is expanding. Vulnerable patients can receive consultations online rather than traveling to see a doctor.
Although there are still inequalities in internet coverage and technology ownership, telehealth can allow people in more remote communities to get the healthcare they need, and enable patients to connect using methods they are already familiar with; many people are using tools such as FaceTime, Skype, and Zoom to connect with others.
Does Medicare cover telehealth services? People holding a Medicare Advantage or Part C health plan have similar telehealth service coverage as those with original Medicare or Parts A and B. Some Medicare Advantage plans provide expanded telemedicine services. The telehealth services a Medicare plan includes may differ. Therefore, you need to contact your health insurance provider directly to determine what your plan covers.
Because of the restrictions and other health and safety protocols brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of telehealth services becomes crucial in both private and public health systems. People can expect more amendments and laws, including new telehealth services in healthcare insurance plans to help patients seek excellent patient care services.
5. More Homecare
Bearing similarities to telehealth, another one of our trends in healthcare is an increase in homecare. For instances where video-calling wouldn’t be appropriate, care can be delivered to the patient in their home.
Advanced medical equipment, such as heart monitor, oxygen, respirators, and others, continue to penetrate home care. Healthcare professionals keep up by honing their skills using state-of-the-art medical devices so they can assist in-home patients. With every sophisticated medical tool and machine the healthcare industry discovers, the future holds brighter for patients. Patients who will benefit greatly are those with chronic medical conditions, debilitating disorders, mobility issues, and degenerative diseases. Most prefer to stay and get treatment at home to improve their quality of life.
More technologies are now transported and used away from the traditional medical environment. This again saves the patient from traveling outside the home.
Top Healthcare Trends of 2020: What Else Can We Expect?
These are just five of the biggest healthcare trends to watch out for. However, healthcare is continually evolving and moving and there’s plenty of other trends and patterns to keep an eye on. Technology is moving fast, and we might be looking at a completely different environment in a couple of years.
For more information on the latest in technology and healthcare, check out some of our other posts.
Video – Artificial Intelligence
Interesting related article: “What is Healthcare?”