Wearable technology monitors chronic diseases
Because of their ability to automatically gather health data, wearable sensors and biometric devices are giving doctors and their patients increased access to information. These devices enable health care providers to detect and diagnose many diseases much earlier, allowing for more precise and timely treatment. The use of sensors by primary care physicians for monitoring hypertension management alone is freeing up to 47.8 million hours across the PCP workforce, which accounts for 26% of outpatient visits annually. By combining the use of sensors with telehealth, “estimates show this would free up roughly 1.9 million hours across the PCP workforce.” This technology gives patients access to real-time consultations, where it addresses questions and concerns, and consequently provides treatment options – all within a few minutes.
The adoption of AI across the health care system faces many challenges despite adamant support from both physicians and patients. With the costs of health care benefits having risen another 5% in 2018, encouraging insurers to pursue telehealth as a cost-saving measure along with the “Large Employers’ 2018 Health Care Strategy and Plan Design Survey, virtually all employers (96%) will make telehealth services available in states where it is allowed next year.” As well, only 50% of U.S. states have telemedicine parity laws, with no guarantee that providers will offer the service at a comparable payment. Furthermore, small practices don’t generally have the resources to invest in AI technologies. However, the hopeful implementation of federally sponsored telehealth programs, along with the support of insurers and legislators, will allow cutting-edge health care technology to thrive, showering its limitless benefits onto Americans for a healthier and more brilliant future.
About the author: Mary Gorder is the Founder and CEO of Drs. On Calls, a telemedicine platform that develops, markets and operates house medical calls, virtual telemedicine service and concierge medical services.
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