Seven key trends of digital transformation in healthcare

 Every industry needs to adapt to current times, technology is constantly evolving and businesses need to catch up and then keep up with the times. The healthcare industry is constantly innovating, from telemedicine to the use of RPA to enhance the patient experience. Thanks to the innovative technology, patients undergo enhanced treatment with the help of virtual reality, wearable devices and much more. 

The first key trend is the rise in on-demand healthcare, customers want appointments and care that fit around their schedule, they want convenience. People have become far more mobile than previous decades so customers expect and want to be diagnosed and treated online, through online tools so they can stay in the comfort of their home.

The second key trend is the importance of big data, it can provide several benefits such as a lower rate of medical errors. Online software will be able to flag any inconsistencies and mistakes in patient data which can then alert healthcare professionals and reduce the risk of error. The predictive analysis of big data is able to assist hospitals and clinics estimate future admission rates, therefore this helps the facilities allocate the proper medical staff to deal with patients. Healthcare companies should invest in their data.

The third key trend is patient treatment through virtual reality (VR). Millions of people suffer with chronic pain, virtual reality has proved to be a more efficient and a safer alternative to drugs. It can also be used to treat strokes, PTSD and more illnesses. From healthcare startups to multi-million pound businesses, VR should be at the forefront of all business plans. 

The fourth key trend is the growth in wearable technology. Devices such as heart monitors and exercise trackers have been on the rise in recent years, these innovative devices allow for a personalised healthcare experience and gives the patient ownership of their own experience. In addition, data collected from the devices can improve the accuracy of treatment. 

The fifth trend is predictive healthcare which can aid businesses of all sizes, it can help predict what illnesses and diseases may become major problems in the near future, this prediction can consequently reduce the pressure on healthcare systems. 

The penultimate trend is artificial intelligence, AI is transforming nearly every industry and healthcare is no exception. It has allowed for the implementation of chatbots and virtual health assistants which in turn improve and enhance the customer experience. The real power of AI is yet to be unleashed, it will soon improve precision medicine, drug discovery and more.

The last trend is blockchain and improved electronic health records. Blockchain is often seen as a puzzling concept however, the better people understand it, the more it will continue to advance the healthcare industry. The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries are already heavily investing in blockchain as it is already proven to be effective in preventing data breaches and also improving the accuracy of medical records.

Which trend do you think is the most important? Tweet us at @HealthcareDig and let us know.