Innovative technologies are the mainstays of today’s modern world. Right from an individual to the various sectors contributing to the GDP of a nation, a bounty of activities and progression is solely dependent on the evolving technologies at the global platform. With each passing year and turn of every decade, emerging technologies are evolving at a brisk pace that is ultimately setting the trajectory of growth and development.
One such sector that has showcased a remarkable transition by embracing new trends and innovations is the Indian healthcare industry. Shedding the conventional patterns and approach, the industry is exploring every possible opportunity to stand amongst the major contributors to the Indian economy. Studies reveal that the healthcare segment is growing at a CAGR of sixteen percent and is expected to climb up to USD 280 billion by 2020. Also, with the advent of ‘frugal innovation’ in the private sector, healthcare services are uniquely poised to undergo a radical change in the near future.
This post collaborates the recent trends that made way into the Indian healthcare industry and proved to be the ‘showstoppers’ in delivering a plethora of new advancements. This paradigm shift is not only limited to embrace new technologies, but it’s also a gigantic step to revamp the overall process for improving the deliverables and increasing efficiency as well.
Telemedicine
Portrayed as one of the most beneficial digital trends across the globe, this technology truly holds the potential to deliver optimum healthcare services to patients living in rural areas and in the remotest corners of the country. Even though the best doctors in the world are of Indian origin, the fact remains that millions of people still don’t have access to quality facilities. Telemedicine brings the finest doctors and the patients at one platform using digital technology – without even traveling a single mile! This technology was existent in India over the last decade; however, the usage was very restricted. Now, with the entrance of private players and Government participation, it is been implemented at a much larger scale.
Artificial Intelligence
Undoubtedly, this technology has added new dimensions and has unlocked new horizons in the healthcare sector. With support from the State and Central Government, AI technology is penetrating the Indian medical sector at all levels. Companies like IBM, Microsoft, and Google are working extensively to build solutions in the key area of diagnosis. The IT giants are working on the vast amount of raw data and construct it into meaningful analysis. AI algorithms are assisting to monitor and manage the various parameters in the human body. In partnership with Apollo Hospitals, Microsoft is using AI for detecting cardiac diseases. Chatbots and virtual assistants are the other distinctive features that are simplifying the cumbersome process of registering medical records, lab results, and clinical workflows.
IoMT – Internet of Medical Things
IoMT plays a key role by bridging the gap between medical resources and healthcare services. This technology revolves around the concept of creating a broad network of connected devices that senses crucial data in real time. This promotes individual ‘data-driven’ treatment for improving affordability, disease detection and prevention, and for fitness promotion to name a few of the distinctive features. A convergence of IoT, telemedicine, and telehealth technologies, IoMT is the perfect way to enhance customer experience and for performing in-depth analytics.
Healthcare Robotics
Medical robotics is quite a fascinating and an emerging trend in the healthcare segment. Majority of the global companies have shown keen interest and are focusing on developing prototypes that would be the answer to complex medical procedures done with utmost precision and yet be cost-effective. The robot-operated machines are immensely helpful for general surgeries, cardiothoracic and urological procedures, and many more. Besides assisting in complex surgeries, they are also in use for hospitals, pharmacies, rehabilitation services, drug manufacturing, inventory and much more. Blending technology and medicines, healthcare robotics in the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing tremendous growth as a result of the evolving medical infrastructure and investment.
Wearable Devices
Modern-day technology has paved the way for medical devices that are wearable in various forms. These smart devices are proving to be quite effective for the patients by the virtue of their size, design, and of course – utility. One can use it as watches, wristbands, chest straps, sensible glasses, footwear’s that are used to measure blood pressure, heart rate, calories, etc. These user-friendly, unobtrusive connected devices are equipped with features like wireless data transmission, real-time monitoring, and alert mechanisms. One distinctive USP of wearable medical devices is the fact that the patients are empowered to monitor and control their health. Along with patients, it has opened gates for the researchers to maximize the range of the clinical trials.
Content Marketing and Optimization
Along with delivering quality medical services, healthcare companies are quick to understand the prominence of building a positive impression of the brand. Digitalization and smart devices have enabled consumers and patients to have a seamless connectivity with the providers which are creating a win-win situation for both the parties. From searching a doctor online, getting appointments, showcasing essential information’s and contents – content marketing is playing a massive role in creating new opportunities in the sector.
The convergence of various technologies is sure to be a game-changer in today’s healthcare sector. Cost-effective solutions backed by cutting-edge innovative trends and technologies are creating a positive eco-system that is quick, efficient, and result-oriented.
