Technology Management

2024 Predictions Regarding Healthcare Advancements Recap – Remote Care & Virtual Reality

by Rumaisa

December 19, 2024

4 min read

Introduction to 2024 Predictions Recap

Earlier this year, we outlined critical healthcare trends that we anticipated would advance throughout 2024. In the first part of our recap series, we discussed advancements in AI and personalized care. In this second part, we recap progress in integrating wearable technologies for remote care and leveraging virtual reality for immersive healthcare solutions.

Remote Care Therapies Implement Wearable Technologies in 2024 Recap

Regarding Remote care therapies, we predicted that wearables would expand their role in telehealth by offering real-time health data to providers, improving adherence to treatment plans, and detecting early signs of worsening health outcomes. Throughout the year, we have seen wearables become used to provide continuous data collection so that worsening symptoms are detected earlier [1]. Furthermore, wearables are becoming more advanced by providing real-time analysis without invasive techniques [1]. For instance, wearable patches are being used to measure biomarkers, which can be used to predict diseases and monitor treatment [1]. Additionally, AI is being implemented into wearables to provide continuous and real-time signal processing [1]. AI is also being used to monitor patients at high speed so that treatments can be made sooner than later [1].

Therefore, it’s clear that wearables are becoming more advanced, and being used to provide real-time data and analysis to providers so that worsening symptoms can be detected earlier while there is still time for early intervention. Furthermore, since wearables can track how a patient reacts to medication over time, they can then also be used to track medication adherence, which will improve patient outcomes. Looking forward, wearables are expected to integrate with several other technologies as well, for instance with VR and EHR systems, so that a seamless continuum of care is provided. However, there are still challenges and work needed to address interoperability issues between devices and healthcare systems, as well as ensure data privacy and security as wearable adoption grows.

Virtual Reality Integration in 2024 Recap

Earlier this year, we predicted that virtual reality would provide a more immersive remote experience for patients [2]. Furthermore, we predicted that patients in rural areas will be able to utilize VR care to feel more connected during their virtual visits and that VR care will integrate wearable devices so that providers have access to real-time data [2]. We also predicted the increased use of digital twins which are virtual models that stimulate how patients may react or be affected under different conditions [3]. This will help predict how patients may react to changes in treatments, medications, and even lifestyle choices [3].

This year, we saw doctors being able to interact with 3D scans of their patients, as well as being able to practice future surgeries so they can gain accurate and reliable hands-on experience [4]. Furthermore, VR is being used to connect providers from various locations so they can collaborate on the best treatment options for patients [4]. Furthermore, VR is being used to improve accuracy in diagnostics and treatment [4], since providers can stimulate complex surgeries and various scenarios in a controlled environment [4]. However, challenges exist in VR requiring high-speed and reliable internet and service [4]. This can pose a challenge to patients in rural communities, older patients, and even patients who are not able to afford the higher speeds of internet required for VR care. Furthermore, VR care requires a certain level of digital literacy to use, which may require training for patients before they understand how to utilize VR-related equipment. Therefore, more work is still needed to make VR more accessible to patients who could benefit from improved immersive care options.

HITS

HITS provides healthcare management services & works with doctors to develop health informatics tools that promote safe and secure care. We take pride in our services and settle for nothing other than 100% quality solutions for our clients. Having the right team assist with data sharing is crucial to encouraging collaborative and secure care. If you’re looking for the right team, HITS is it! You can reach out to us directly at info@healthitsol.com. Check out this link if you’re interested in having a 15-minute consultation with us: https://bit.ly/3RLsRXR.

References

Categories: Technology Management,

Rumaisa

An editor at Health Information Technology Solutions