What are some new healthcare technologies and how can healthcare communications be changed as a result of such technologies?

Many of the new advances in technology provide an opportunity to transform healthcare in radical ways through changing the models for medical data communication.

One type of advance generally falls under what is termed the "internet of things," or the ability to embed wireless communication abilities into a variety of very small objects with minimal power requirements. This means medical devices such as pacemakers or glucose monitors can send real-time information to patients' phones, which...

Many of the new advances in technology provide an opportunity to transform healthcare in radical ways through changing the models for medical data communication.

One type of advance generally falls under what is termed the "internet of things," or the ability to embed wireless communication abilities into a variety of very small objects with minimal power requirements. This means medical devices such as pacemakers or glucose monitors can send real-time information to patients' phones, which can relay that information to doctors or computers running diagnostic software, allowing treatment of many chronic diseases to be managed continuously. This monitoring results in better outcomes. Remote monitoring systems combined with phone applications that sense whether someone has taken medications can increase patient compliance and may help the elderly who might be suffering mild dementia to live independently longer. 

Next, a combination of digital imaging, video conferencing, and wireless-enabled diagnostic machinery can allow expert doctors to consult with physicians in remote areas. While many rural areas cannot support medical specialists such as cardiologists or neurologists, remote diagnostic facilities allow such specialists to diagnose patients and prescribe treatment remotely.

Finally, drones are increasingly being used to deliver medications, including vaccines, to remote ares in sub-Saharan Africa, where road access is limited. Drones also allow humanitarian organizations to deliver medications in conflict zones. Combining remote consulting and prescribing with drone delivery and cloud-based expert systems allows medical treatment to reach many people who would otherwise lack access to it.