In recent years, the advancement of technology has helped create positive changes for many industries, particularly the healthcare sector.
Technology has always driven the capabilities of healthcare, with innovations and research methods continually helping to secure better outcomes for patients, from the invention of antibiotics, vaccines and anaesthetic, to scanners and defibrillators. But with the digital revolution accelerating faster than ever before, we can expect the benefits to become even greater.
We’ll explore some of the advantages of the technological revolution in healthcare settings.
Improved equipment
New and advanced technology allows for improved tools and equipment in relation to surgery, procedures, medical devices and diagnostics. For example, developments of transistor technology have paved the way for modern health devices such as pacemakers and hearing aids.
Improved diagnostics such as MRIs and other advanced imaging technology give faster results and a better patient experience. And with more efficient ways of diagnosing and treating conditions, higher numbers of patients are likely to receive better care and quality of life.
Efficiency
The use of apps, online medical advice and patient booking systems has transformed the way the NHS interacts with patients and how they provide their services. New and improved online data systems have led to an increasingly seamless process when it comes to patient referrals, results and diagnostics.
Pharmacies can now receive prescriptions from GPs via a digital system and then get in touch with patients when they’re ready to collect, saving time for all involved.
The Department of Health and Social Care also pledged that people will benefit from a more personalised healthcare system due to the digital revolution.
Money-saving
Technological innovations often result in less expensive systems and equipment, which allow diagnostics and surgery to be completed across a wider range of sites. Less invasive procedures, aided by advanced tech, also means less time on the operating table and reduced hospital stays.
This has been especially important as the public healthcare sector often suffers from a limited budget.
More recently, robotics have been used to aid in the work of healthcare professionals, alleviating the pressure and delivering more tailored care, although this field of technology is still in its fairly early stages.
Accuracy
Every aspect of healthcare has benefited from greater accuracy through the use of digital developments. From referrals and diagnostics to research and treatment, data sharing and more precise equipment has led to reduced errors and increasingly better outcomes.
From a patient’s first point of contact with their GP, through to specialist referrals, subsequent treatment and follow-ups, there’s no doubt that the digital and technology revolution has, and will continue, to help provide an improved service.
