Advancements in Technology Are Reshaping the Healthcare Environment

By: Richard Bezozo, M.D.

Recent advancements in technology are changing the healthcare industry drastically. What once was done manually, is now completed digitally, with the developments and improvements made in technology.  As technology continues to revolutionize the way patients are cared for, these advancements are also enhancing the quality of care they are receiving.

Technologies are reshaping the healthcare environment in several areas:

• Surgeries: Select procedures are now being performed by robotics. Advancements in medicine are now allowing doctors to perform robotic surgery, a minimally invasive, yet very precise treatment option.

• Medical records: Hospitals, medical centers, and other healthcare providers are transitioning from filing cabinets to a paperless environment. It is now possible to have all electronic medical records and financial documents for easy and quick transportation of confidential information in a safe manner.

• Advanced equipment: Medical tools and devices have also developed from the implementation of technology. Physicians have updated their offices with the most advanced equipment, including digital imaging devices, digital prescription software, patient-monitoring systems, improved x-ray, scanning and laser technology, and much more, all designed to improve the excellence of care.

• Mobile health technology: According to a report from Manhattan Research on MobiHealth News, the number of adults in the United States who used their phone for health information and tools grew from 61 million in 2011 to 75 million this year. With the growing ownership of capable devises and the easy accessibility of digital medical information, there has also been an increase in applications available for mobile users to download on their devices. Whether you are a care provider, medical student, or you just want to be proactive about your health, there are a variety of mobile apps. Some apps include pill and appointment reminders, reading/learning apps such as the iRadiology app, self-treatment apps to monitor your health, such as the Breast Self-Exam Record app, and the MelApp that assists in the early detection of melanoma.

Capabilities in providing care are endless with increasing progress in technology. Technological advancements in medicine have significantly helped to provide patients with many options for treatment and early detection preventative actions, allowing you to explore and choose the best option for your health. It is important to educate yourself, make regular visits to your physicians, perform self-checks, and enroll in early detection surveillance programs to be proactive in your health.

Richard Bezozo, M.D., is the president of MoleSafe.