6 Ways Technology Can Help Improve Your Health

In the recent past, there have been eminent technological advancements in the medical sector. Technology has been used to design top-notch equipment that has played a significant role in increasing the life expectancy and making people live healthier lives. Whether you want to become healthier, lose weight, or you are facing a chronic illness, these technological advances can help you improve your health drastically.

1. Virtual Services

It is commonly referred to as telehealth or telemedicine. Telehealth has been made possible by the telecommunication technologies. Virtual clinics are more popular in rural areas where access to quality and timely healthcare can be limited by factors such as terrible weather or an ongoing health issue. Patients use gadgets such as computers to virtually meet with a doctor or for meetings for people in recovery.

There are numerous medical facilities or group therapy apps that offer virtual services. Not only do you get quality healthcare from the comfort of your home, but also enjoy reduced healthcare as well as transport costs.

2. Wearable medical devices

Though the production of wearable heath devices is at its initial stages, there is evidence how the equipment will be used to improve health. These devices are used to measure and collect health-related data such as the heart rate and activity levels which assist doctors in assessing and monitoring the health of the people wearing them.

In the past, medical practitioners and patients used point-in-time health measurements to make healthcare decisions. For example, people living with diabetic would collect blood-sugar levels using finger sticks several times in a day. Point-in-time health measurements provide limited insight of the patient’s health. This necessitates the use of devices that can collect and monitor health conditions such as diabetes in real time.

The wearable devices are small sensors that are worn by patients. The sensors collect medical data and report it to the patient through an external device or applications installed on electronic devices.

3.Mobile health applications

Recently, the University of Kentucky Center for Rural Health conducted a survey on 10,000 uninsured people. The study was carried out to show the main benefits of using mobile health apps. According to the study, the cost of healthcare services was reduced by 80 percent, the rate of hospitalization lowered by 92 percent, while the emergency visits reduced by 87 percent. Most of the respondents agreed that the apps have helped them improve their health at a lower cost.

Medical, as well as fitness apps for both Android and iPhone users pop up every day. Currently, there are mobile apps designed to meet almost every medical need. Some of the common apps include diet tracking, workout, fitness, and apps that help women track their menstrual cycle. As technology advances, there will be the creation of apps that will monitor crucial health records such as heart rate and cholesterol levels.

4.Electronic health records

Electronic health records are one of the greatest evolutions in the medical field that can facilitate numerous developments in medical treatment as well as diagnostics.

In the past, hospitals used distinct information systems thus hindering the ability to transfer or share patients’ records. The introduction of EHRs has enabled interconnections of many systems, which allows faster transfer of patient’s data. EHRs reduce errors as health providers have access to the patients’ medical history.

5.Increased awareness

Constant access to information and connectivity has facilitated the increase of awareness among people, especially when it comes to health and well-being. Currently, you can know the latest virus and how it is spread. The technology from the internet and mobile devices have enabled instant communication and quick sharing of important medical information. This has helped build awareness so that most people are in a position to take preventive measures against numerous diseases.

6.Remote monitoring tools

These tools are used by patients who monitor their health at the comfort of their homes. The tools help the patients reduce the costs for visiting the doctor’s office. Patients with chronic diseases can now monitor their health from a distance. This remote monitoring tools have also enabled patients to keep up with their daily routines.

Advancements in technology have enabled many intricate medical procedures to become commonplace. The thought of virtually visiting the doctor was unimaginable a few years ago. Many technological advancements are underway. In the meantime, utilize these technologies and enjoy good health.