A convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud-technology, machine learning and connected devices are helping to change healthcare. Some of the world’s largest tech giants, including Apple, Samsung and Amazon – all leaders in consumer products and services – are taking big leaps and investing serious money in the healthcare sector. In only a few short years the concept of the smart hospital will become a reality.
The question is: as consumers, is this what we need? Will the healthcare sector and hospitals benefit from the impact and influence of consumer tech giants? Can they actively improve healthcare delivery and treatment of patients? In other words: What would treatment look like in a smart hospital of the not so distant future?
To ensure that healthcare remains affordable it needs to rethink how that healthcare is delivered to patients. New thoughts need to be put into how treatment is provided on an individual basis and how medical providers use the vast amounts of patient data that may be able to reduce the need for extended medical care.
There is no doubt that healthcare is changing. Between innovation that the health industry is known for, and continually creating new drugs – better ways to treat illnesses are in the making. Add to this mix of physician innovation and pharma creations: we can look forward to a healthier future. As the tech industry comes on board, increasing the pace of change in healthcare, the pace of change will be relentless.