Digital Health Trends 2022: Top 5 Healthcare Technology Trends To Keep An Eye On

The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light the shortcomings of the health industry. While doing so, it also gave it a push to bridge the gap. The latest digital health technology trends have put more focus on accessible healthcare. After all, there is nothing more fundamental than helping patients get medical help when needed. Going digital is the medium to do so quickly and conveniently. The relevance of both of the above was spotlighted by the spread of COVID-19.

In the US for instance, 80% of the healthcare system is aiming to increase investment in digital health over the next 5 years [1]. It is no surprise that digital healthcare trends evolve according to the needs of patients and healthcare providers. However, this has also highlighted the importance of digital wellness.

Wondering what is digital wellness? Whether you consider digital wellness for students or working professionals, homemakers or seniors, it simply refers to a healthy relationship with technology. This is to ensure that technology does not have a negative impact on your physical or mental health. With everything going digital, it is important to focus on your digital well-being as well. Read on to find out the top digital health trends 2022.

Telemedicine 

This is one of the key health and wellness trends 2022 that has transformed the health industry. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the facility of telemedicine has made healthcare more accessible and cost-effective. Getting doctors’ advice on call or video has especially benefited those who are either injured, immunocompromised or live in remote areas. Telemedicine also enabled real-time insights on patients’ health conditions as well as quick diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, treatment was possible even without visiting the clinic.

Digital health records 

As the name suggests, this refers to patient records that are digitally stored and accessed. Digital prescriptions and health IDs help store your health records securely. You can store your reports, treatment records, and more in a digital health vault. This helps create a long-term history and also reduces the possibility of human error. Maintaining digital health records is one of the current and future trends in healthcare. It can lead to a major transformation in healthcare services and is already being put in place in India.

Mental health apps 

When the pandemic isolated everyone, it had a significant impact on mental health. The restrictions brought about by COVID-19 triggered a 25% increase in the global prevalence of depression and anxiety [2]. Due to lockdowns and travel constraints, people started finding ways to address their mental health concerns online. As a result, mental health apps started rising on the list of new healthcare trends in the world for doctors and patients. With technological advancements, mental health apps are now a viable tool for mental health treatment [3]. They help bridge the gap of the global shortage of psychiatrists and lack of access to therapy and other treatment.

AI for better patient care 

Artificial intelligence helps increase the ability of healthcare professionals to understand the needs of their patients. It also reduces the reliance on manual labor for administrative services. AI also offers insights on key improvement areas, thus allowing medical professionals to provide better services. AI is one of the emerging telehealth trends of 2022. With AI advancements, patients can now use interactive platforms to tackle health concerns. They can book a consultation or follow-up appointment without hassles even in a remote setting.

Smart wearables 

One of the most innovative digital healthcare trends include the use of smart wearables. Using them, you can be more active in monitoring and maintaining your health. Such wearables include smartwatches, smart inhalers and even smart shirts! Technology-enabled smart wearables can help you track various things such as: 

• Heart rate
• Oxygen saturation levels
• Reproductive cycles
• Sleep cycles
• Calories burned
• Stress levels 

The data stored from smart wearables is systematic and accurate. So, it enables you and your doctor better understand your health needs.

Thanks to these healthcare technology 2022 trends, the healthcare industry is transforming into one that makes personalized healthcare solutions possible and more accessible. This paradigm shift intends to deliver a better experience for patients and doctors, helping build trust and credibility. Now that you know what are the current digital trends in the medical field, be sure to make the most of them.

Using digital healthcare tools can help you stay informed about your health and also alert you when you need medical assistance. One of the trends you can put to use right now is telemedicine. If you notice any signs of concern, book a teleconsultation appointment with top doctors on Bajaj Finserv Health. This way, you can ease your worries and take action for better health from the comfort of home! You can also select from affordable test packages on the platform to keep accurate track of your health.