Bozan

With the advancement of the internet and the information system, medical technology has taken huge strides towards major developments in recent times. Especially, since the COVID-19 outbreak, the healthcare system has been put under severe strain, leading to the development of promising medical technologies and their testing on a considerable scale.

In this article, we will share some insights about recent advancements and developments in healthcare technology.

Advancement in telehealth

Telehealth means the remote delivery of healthcare services by using telecommunications infrastructure. With this technology, doctors can diagnose and treat patients without seeing them in person. Telemedicine took a great leap owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For better functioning, many telehealth barriers were removed, and many healthcare organisations are now focusing on improving existing telehealth services for the future. Telehealth is a valuable way for patients with chronic diseases to connect to their doctor quickly and frequently. It also helps them stick to required health practices. Further, with teletherapy and telepsychiatry, telehealth has a great use for treating patients with mental disabilities.

Related read: Will telehealth retain its charm in post-pandemic era?

Use of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare

Image source: © Leowolfert | Megapixl.com

Artificial intelligence (AI) advancements provide rapid, economical, and better-qualified solutions for diagnosis, prevention, and medication. AI offers several advantages over conventional analytics and clinical decision-making techniques.

AI is prompt in assessing a patient’s symptoms and health concerns. It then provides care and recommendation based on the diagnosis. AI has also been used in personalised care, i.e., it analyses the response of different patients to different treatments and management approaches. It then suggests alternate methods to the treatment plan to suit them better.

Related read: Artificial Intelligence: a monster or an angel?

Significant boost in drug manufacturing

We have seen that COVID-19 vaccines were developed in less than a year. It was probably possible due to the prevalence of virtual clinical trials and collaboration between pharmaceutical companies. The fast-tracking of the regulatory process was also taken care of. Relaxation in regulatory procedures will fade away with drug development, but innovative approaches to drug testing could stay for longer.

Nanomedicine

Nanomedicine is based on knowledge and tools of nanotechnology to prevent and treat diseases. Nanomedicine came into play during the vaccine development of COVID-19, the mRNA-based vaccine. Scientists are working towards finding new ways to put nanomedicine into action.

This technology has enabled site-specific and target-oriented drug delivery, which has benefitted a lot in treating chronic diseases. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy are the best examples of applications of nanomedicine.

Wearables and fitness devices

Wearables and fitness devices have renovated the healthcare system in today’s market. These devices are designed to generate quick and intelligent data from watches or smart wristbands and are connected to a person’s mobile or computer.

Most wearable devices are embedded with sensors that gather data from our bodies and related physical activities. These devices provide better access to monitoring complex chronic diseases, tracking medications and care of older people, devices for monitoring heart rates and blood pressure, audio devices for those with a hearing problem, keeping track of our daily workout activities, etc.

Also read: Four ASX healthcare shares with over 20% returns in 1 month