Efficiency. Productivity. Cost savings. These are just a few of the perks organisations can enjoy when leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT).
Given how popular the technology has become among business owners lately, most of us are at least somewhat aware of these benefits. However, the advantages of using the IoT in the healthcare industry aren’t so well known.
Countless new IoT-powered systems and devices have emerged since the pandemic, when they enabled remote appointments. And these cutting-edge solutions have had remarkably positive impacts in medical settings!
How exactly is the IoT supporting the healthcare industry? Let’s see…
How the IoT is supporting the healthcare industry
The IoT offers members of the healthcare industry many of the same benefits it affords business owners. For example, it can be used to automate repetitive tasks — resulting in faster processes and lower operational costs. And that’s on top of…
More accurate diagnoses
With IoT-connected equipment, medical professionals can get a much clearer picture of what’s going on in patients’ bodies.
Take wireless capsule endoscopies (WCEs) as an example. These tests are typically used to diagnose colon cancer and other gastrointestinal issues. During the non-invasive procedure, patients swallow a small camera that takes thousands of pictures of their digestive tract. The pictures are then transmitted via a datalogger, so healthcare professionals can view them in real-time.
WCEs mean doctors can spot inflammation, tumours and other abnormalities that may not be visible during other tests. As a result, patients get a more accurate diagnosis — and receive the treatment they need more promptly. All of which is great for patient outcomes!
Ongoing patient monitoring
Thanks to the IoT, healthcare professionals don’t lose sight over patient well-being once they exit doctors’ offices and hospitals.
That’s because wearable devices, such as blood pressure monitors and glucometers, can keep track of patients’ vital signs remotely. These gadgets use sensors to detect when something’s not right — and notify healthcare professionals if intervention is required. So, someone like a diabetic would know when their blood sugar is dangerously low. That’s crucial to avoiding a medical emergency!
Essentially, IoT-connected wearables don’t just improve the quality of life for those with chronic conditions — they also prevent hospitalisations. This helps take the pressure off busy departments and means patients can stay at home to limit their risk of infection. Ideal for all parties…
Streamlined treatment plans
The IoT is making it easier than ever for patients and healthcare providers to stay on top of treatment — especially when it comes to medication.
Smart pill dispensers can send reminders when it’s time for tablets to be taken. Plus, IoT-enabled prescription bottles can indicate how many tablets a person has left. Therefore, patients are less likely to miss a dose or forget to file for a new prescription — preventing them from being left in urgent need of a refill.
These cutting-edge solutions are helping the healthcare industry reach new heights in lots of ways. Above all, they’re ensuring patients stick to treatment plans and reducing pressure on pharmacies and admin teams. Sounds like something worth implementing, right?
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