When you think of technology, the first thing that probably comes to mind is your smartphone. But technology has come a long way in recent years and has greatly impacted the healthcare industry.
Technology has significantly improved healthcare in several ways. In recent decades, technology has made diagnosing and treating illnesses quickly and effectively with new drugs and procedures. Technological innovations have also enabled hospitals to focus on prevention and treatment. Here are some ways technology is improving healthcare.
Electronic Health Records
One of the most important ways technology improves healthcare is by making it easier for doctors to access patients’ medical records. In the past, medical records were stored in paper files, which made it difficult and time-consuming for doctors to get the information they needed. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow doctors to easily access patients’ medical histories, medications, allergies, and more. This saves time and helps improve the quality of care patients receive.
EHRs are digital versions of the paper chart. They are real-time records that make patient information available instantly to authorized users. In addition to containing a patient’s medical history, diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans, EHRs can include a broader view of the care they are receiving. For example, they may also contain their radiology images or immunization dates. They also provide access to tools that allow providers to make evidence-based decisions on patient care. EHRs also streamline the workflow of healthcare providers.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging is a technological innovation that revolutionized modern medicine. It is used to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It can diagnose a wide variety of health issues. The tool is non-invasive, making it a safe choice for patients of all ages. It is especially beneficial for pregnant women and children, who may be at risk for health problems if exposed to radiation.
Even though the technology does not use ionizing radiation, it employs a strong magnetic field that can extend beyond the machine. It is powerful enough to affect iron and other magnetizable objects. It can affect wheelchairs, pacemakers, or any metallic implant in the body. Before scanning, it would be best to inform your doctor of any medical conditions. But you can undergo a reliable same-day MRI procedure if you are not wearing a pacemaker with iron components. The benefits of using MRI technology in healthcare are numerous. It provides valuable, non-invasive insights into a patient’s health and is also a safe choice for those who may be at risk from other imaging technologies.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine or telehealth is another promising area where technology is changing healthcare for the better. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with a doctor remotely via video conferencing. This can be an excellent option for people who live in rural areas or have difficulty leaving their homes. And because telemedicine appointments are often shorter than in-person appointments, they can save patients’ and doctors’ time.
Telemedicine proved to be helpful during the pandemic. It allowed patients to consult their doctors even without visiting the clinic. It reduced their risk of getting the virus by staying safe at home. Doctors could also monitor their patient’s progress and medication intake with telemedicine.
Wearable devices
The use of wearable devices in the modern world has become more commonplace. With the advent of smartphones and other mobile technologies, people have access to an incredible wealth of information at their fingertips. The same holds for the healthcare industry. Wearable devices are now being used to help doctors and patients track essential health data.
One of the most important benefits of wearable devices in healthcare is that they can help doctors keep track of a patient’s health over time. This is especially important for patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. By tracking a patient’s vital signs and other health data, doctors can better monitor their condition and ensure they get the treatment they need.
Wearable devices can also be valuable tools for patients themselves. For example, many wearable devices can track a person’s activity level and calories burned. This information can be helpful for people who are trying to lose weight or get in shape. Additionally, wearable devices that track sleep patterns can be beneficial for people who want to improve their sleep quality.
Wearable devices offer many benefits for doctors and patients in the healthcare industry. They provide a way to track vital health data over time, which can help doctors better monitor a patient’s condition. They also provide helpful information to patients so they can make better decisions about their health.
Technology has come a long way in recent years and significantly impacted the healthcare industry. From electronic health records to wearable devices, technology is changing healthcare for the better and making it more convenient and accessible for everyone involved.
