Technology continues to transform the healthcare industry. The ‘internet of medical things’ has seen the development of a technologically driven and connected healthcare systems to the benefit of both the patients and the professionals. Let’s take a look at the crucial role of the internet in these advancements which are fast becoming the norm. 

The internet of medical things refers to connected medical devices and software for healthcare systems and services. This allows for a centralised collection of data that can be generated, collected, analysed and shared between patient and practitioner. The data is transmitted to healthcare provider networks on internal servers or to cloud-based delivery, streamlining vital patient information. 

There are many examples of this, with the adoption of these digital-first applications and tools becoming commonplace in countries around the world. It facilitates medical management and makes the delivery of the best possible healthcare services possible. With the right connections in place, hospitals and medical practices are keeping electronic health records. 

Patient care and service are not only improved by data sharing, though. It also improves workflows by incorporating healthcare management. This means quality care can be provided by specialists, without having to spend resources (like valuable time) doing mundane administrative tasks, such as insurance verification. These solutions are improved using data and automation systems that are connected online. 

Medical practices and processes can be tracked and monitored, ensuring optimal and standardised practices and protocols are adhered to. Similarly, wearable devices make it easier for medical monitoring. These devices allow for physiological data to be recorded and wirelessly communicated for improved detection which could be life-saving. An example of this includes automated insulin delivery systems. Tools like these can be life-saving, since it is possible to monitor insulin levels on an ongoing basis, and the exact amount of insulin needed is pumped into the system. 

Other wearable smart devices can measure blood pressure, EKG, temperature, glucose and oxygen levels. Not all connected devices are designed to be worn, though. It can also be implanted to replace, support, or enhance biological structures (such as pacemakers). Static medical equipment is also connected, from MRI machines to X-Rays to collect all of the data on a single platform.

According to AllTheResearch, the Internet of medical things market is expected to reach $254.2 billion by 2026. This comes as the technology is more readily available and adopted, as well as the new demands which have been placed on the healthcare industry.

Benefits of Healthcare Powered by the Internet 

These are the primary benefits of utilising internet solutions and systems in healthcare.

Improves Efficiency

Professionals can monitor their patients remotely, and scheduling appointments is made easy to ensure that patient care is seamless and uninterrupted. Technological data is also more robust and accurately recorded in real-time, and prescriptions can be better managed and monitored to ensure they’re being taken as directed, which is especially beneficial for the elderly and patients with long-term conditions. In areas of incurable diseases, like Parkinson’s, it makes it easier to monitor patients progression which will be incredibly valuable for research purposes. 

 Lowers Costs

Investment in these systems requires less one-on-one time with patients, and remote care options free up space in hospitals for critical care patients. 

 Reduces Error

With all of the symptoms present and more information relating to how a patent reacts to certain medications, for example, doctors can pick up on potential issues earlier and avoid misdiagnosis by having a full set of patient information to work with. Robotic surgery also fits in here, since it can be sued to perform complex procedures that require a level of precision not possible using human hands alone. This can reduce the size of insertions for less invasive procedures that heal faster. Issues can also be detected and signaled in connected devices, which prevents medical emergencies with unforeseen breakdowns in devices. 

 Results in Better Outcomes

With a collection of data readily available at the touch of a button, doctors have access to full medical histories from a holistic point of view. This can result in more accurate diagnoses which are also reached faster. 

 Unified and optimised healthcare is the way forward. This requires connectivity powered by the internet. Duties can be performed with ease with greater efficiency and automation. By storing all of this data on a single and centralised platform, healthcare professionals can deliver specialised and personalised healthcare. These digital solutions present improvement management and treatment for the medical community.

Not all hospitals are fully-equipped and optimised with the full power of the internet. It may require the upgrading of systems to ultimately improve services and profitability. Since healthcare is such an important industry for society, it also requires that these medical facilities are working with reliable internet partners who can offer efficiency, reliability, and security. 

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