Thanks to the latest developments in healthcare digitalization such as artificial intelligence, 3D printers, virtual and augmented reality, nanotechnology, and robotics, the future of medicine is taking shape. Keeping up with technological advances is necessary for humans to control the technology, not the other way around.
The human-machine alliance will be fundamental not only to better accommodate future changes in the health system but also to allow humans to stay afloat in an increasingly digital world. The software bit of healthcare technology is working perfectly in most facilities. A perfect example is the Laboratory Information System, which is ideal for data management in busy hospitals and medical labs.
Of course, there are many doubts: what if robots and artificial intelligence permanently replace doctors, nurses, and other health professionals? What if AI takes over and takes over the world?
In reality, there is no reason to be scared, as these hypotheses are nothing more than fake news, half-truths, and somewhat fanciful ways of describing possible developments of the digital revolution. However, these conjectures all have something in common: fear of the unknown and what the future might bring. Let’s look at some of the ways technology is changing healthcare.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a tool designed to completely revolutionize healthcare. Thanks to the ability to read medical records, artificial intelligence algorithms can formulate treatment plans, develop new drugs and even analyze samples of cancerous and non-cancerous tissue, all faster than any real physician. It has helped to reduce the hassle in different activities such as Physician Dispensing and also guarantees high levels of accuracy.
Nanotechnology
In the future, we may see nanoparticles and nanodevices serving as a drug delivery system, tiny surgeons, or tools to treat cancer. Taopatch is a perfect example of a nanotech wearable device that helps to improve posture, physical & emotional well-being and manages chronic pain. You can go through the Taopatch Review to understand more about the device.
There have been stories circulating about Taopatch Scam, but this review can eliminate the doubts and help you understand how it works. Nanotechnology is also gaining ground in the form of a “smart patch.” French company Grapheal unveiled its smart patch at CES 2020. The patch allows for continuous wound monitoring, while its graphene core helps speed up the healing process.
As technology evolves, there will be more and more examples of nanotechnology for medical purposes.
Robotics
Robotics is one of the fastest-growing and most interesting areas of medicine. Robot developments range from disinfecting robots and exoskeletons to surgical robots and simulators.
2019 was the year of exoskeletons; the first surgery assisted by exoskeleton was performed, and a quadriplegic man was able to control his exoskeleton thanks to brain waves. The applications for these robots are many, from lifting older patients to helping healthcare professionals assist patients with spinal cord injuries.
Robotics can also be a valuable ally against loneliness: some robots are used in pediatrics to assist children with terminal illnesses and take care of their mental health. Jibo, Buddy, Paro, and Pepper are all examples of this type of robot. Some allow owners to control them through microphones, cameras, and touch sensors.
3D Printing
3D printing is opening up a world of possibilities in many areas of medicine. Thanks to the possibility of using this technology to mold blood vessels, artificial limbs, biomaterials, and pills, the list is constantly growing and shows no signs of stopping.
In November 2019, researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, developed a way to 3D print human skin equipped with blood vessels. This has brought enormous benefits to burn victims and patients waiting for a skin graft. The pharmaceutical industry is also benefiting from these new technologies. The 3D printed drugs are approved by the FDA and have been on the market since 2015.
Certainly, we live in highly innovative times for medicine, all thanks to the rapid growth of technology. The goal is to share developments and new medical knowledge that will project us into the future of medicine.
