Recent technological developments have completely changed many aspects of our lives, including healthcare. Innovations in healthcare, such as telemedicine and mobile health apps, have been significant in enhancing healthcare accessibility and delivery, especially in marginalized communities. This article explores how technology is changing healthcare delivery and access, emphasizing significant technological advancements and how they may help close the gap in healthcare access.
With telemedicine, patients can communicate with medical professionals from a distance, which has become an essential tool for expanding access to healthcare. People can obtain timely medical advice and treatment without needing in-person visits through virtual meetings and remote monitoring. People who live in rural or isolated areas with limited access to healthcare facilities have benefited most from this.
Wearable technology and mobile health apps have allowed people to track and manage their health more successfully. With the comfort of their homes, users can monitor vital signs, keep tabs on physical activity, and manage chronic conditions. Wearable technology promotes proactive healthcare management and early intervention by offering real-time data and personalized insights, eventually improving health outcomes.
Technology can alleviate inequities that marginalized communities face and close the gap in healthcare access. Healthcare providers can reach people with obstacles to receiving traditional healthcare services, like transportation or restricted access to medical facilities, by utilizing telemedicine, wearable technology, and mobile health apps. In addition, focused interventions and digital health programs targeting marginalized communities’ unique requirements can support fair and equal access to high-quality medical care.
Technology’s contribution to improving healthcare delivery and access will only grow as it develops. By using wearable technology, telemedicine, and mobile health apps, we can build a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system that serves everyone’s needs, regardless of location.
References:
Smith, Anthony C et al. “Telehealth for global emergencies: Implications for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).” Journal of telemedicine and telecare vol. 26,5 (2020): 309-313. doi:10.1177/1357633X20916567
Morrison, Cecily. “Apps for asthma self-management: a systematic assessment of content and tools - BMC Medicine.” BMC Medicine, 22 November 2012, https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1741-7015-10-144#citeas. Accessed 17 February 2024.
“A review of wearable sensors and systems with application in rehabilitation - Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation.” Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 20 April 2012, https://jneuroengrehab.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1743-0003-9-21. Accessed 17 February 2024.
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