Once upon a time, I wrote a book chapter called……read until to find out.
The Healthcare Challenge can be solved with Wearables and Artificial Intelligence
Healthcare systems worldwide face mounting pressures due to bureaucratic complexities, an aging population, rising lifestyle-related diseases, and advancements in medicine. These factors contribute to increasing and unsustainable healthcare costs. At the same time, patients seek greater control over their health and well-being, demanding a shift from traditional healthcare models to more collaborative, patient-centered care.
The Shift to Digital Health with Wearables
The introduction of disruptive technologies since 2010 has challenged conventional healthcare models, overwhelming patients, caregivers, and other stakeholders. This technological wave, known as Digital Health, represents a cultural transformation rather than just a technological one. It emphasizes continuous health engagement, shared decision-making, and a more democratized doctor-patient relationship.
Wearables and AI: A Game-Changing Partnership
One of the most promising advancements in Digital Health is the combination of wearable technology and artificial intelligence (AI). This convergence offers immense potential for healthcare innovation by providing continuous health data and fostering proactive care strategies.
Lifestyle and Continuous Health Monitoring
Approximately 60% of factors influencing individual health relate to lifestyle choices, such as medication adherence, daily physical activity, and stress management. Traditional healthcare relies on isolated snapshots of health data. In contrast, wearables combined with AI enable continuous monitoring, transforming non-consumption areas into valuable opportunities for personalized, preventive care.
The Power of Data and AI Wearables
Between 2010 and 2015, the volume of stored patient data increased by 700%, with 91% of it being unstructured. AI excels at deriving actionable insights from this vast pool of raw data, streamlining healthcare processes and enhancing decision-making. With healthcare executives globally investing heavily in AI, its adoption promises more efficient and cost-effective healthcare delivery.
Applications of Wearables and AI
While AI-driven medical imaging tools offer efficiency improvements, they target tasks already performed by specialized physicians and may not significantly lower costs. In contrast, wearables paired with AI present a transformative opportunity by continuously collecting and analyzing health data.
Examples of Impactful Innovations with Wearables
- Smartwatches and Health Apps: Smartwatches are becoming increasingly popular, integrating health apps that encourage healthier lifestyles. When data from these devices is shared with clinicians, it provides valuable insights into individual health factors.
- Mental Health Support: Researchers at MIT developed a next-generation Samsung smartwatch that offers social coaching for individuals with Asperger syndrome and severe anxiety, showcasing the potential for comprehensive mental and physical health support.
- Remote Monitoring Programs: In southeast England, a National Health Service program uses AI-enabled wearables to monitor patient vital signs remotely. This initiative has reduced emergency room visits, lowered hospital readmissions, increased adherence to treatment plans, and decreased the need for costly home visits.
The Benefits of Wearables and AI Integration
The combination of wearables and AI empowers both patients and caregivers, fostering value-based healthcare and personalized care. By providing real-time insights and proactive alerts, healthcare becomes more accessible and affordable. This integration strengthens the bond between physicians and patients, creating a new era of healthcare.
A Vision for the Future with AI and Wearables
The potential of wearables and AI lies in their ability to decentralize care and target areas previously neglected by traditional healthcare models. By harnessing these technologies, healthcare can become more efficient, cost-effective, and patient-centered. This shift requires collective effort and focus on solutions that deliver meaningful value, ultimately striving for high-quality, affordable healthcare for all.
Once upon a time …..the time was not right. Now the time is right, 6 years ago when I wrote my book chapter on Wearables Combined with Artificial Intelligence Will be the Game Changer in Healthcare was way too early, now that’s the right time.
Read the Oura Pulse blog where the CEO of Oura Tom Hale addresses The Future of Wellness with Wearables and AI
Conclusion
As wearables and AI continue to evolve, they hold the promise to fundamentally transform healthcare. By fostering collaboration, enhancing data-driven decisions, and enabling continuous care, these technologies pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive future.
About the Author
João Bocas is a globally recognized expert in wearable technology, digital health, and healthcare innovation. With a passion for helping businesses adopt cutting-edge digital trends, he explores the intersection of technology and business, analyzing disruptive innovations and future market trends. Through his insights, João aims to empower organizations and individuals to thrive in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
