Some of us are afraid that technological innovations such as robots will take over our jobs. Others are scared of a future in which our children are addicted to virtual reality and exist in an unreal world. Among many more, all these fears are genuine based on our experience with technology so far. They are however misguided half-truths as technology has aided the human evolution in unimaginable ways such as the employee benefit selection solution. This has especially been felt in the healthcare industry. Our lives have already been impacted significantly by technology. In the field of medicine, there has been arguably the biggest impact as a result of the latest developments in technology.
In healthcare, technology has improved the relationship between patients and medical professionals in many ways. It has provided cheaper, faster and effective ways to solve medical issues. It has aided the fight against HIV, Cancer and Ebola among many other diseases. Technology has enabled us to establish healthier lives and better social structures. These are important pillars in the healthcare improvement for mankind.
Artificial intelligence
Technology has improved healthcare in many ways. Among them is artificial intelligence. Algorithms in medical artificial intelligence systems can now design medical treatments, create drugs and get medical records way faster than any medical professional. An artificial intelligence system roots out therapies from a molecular structure’s database by the use of super computers. A start-up, known as Atomwise, launched a virtual search for safe medicines that could be restructured to treat the Ebola virus last year. The AI technology found two drugs that may reduce Ebola infections significantly.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality and augmented reality are also innovations that are changing the lives of patients and healthcare professionals alike. Augmented reality enables the armature physicians to get pre-trials of surgery and other medical procedures. This enables the realization of the best possible results. Virtual reality fosters empathy between elderly patients and young doctors and caretakers. This is made possible by giving the caretaker an experience of what it feels like to be old with visual and audio impairments. Healthcare trackers, sensors and wearables which are consistently being improved by developers. They help patients manage weight, stress levels, cognitive capabilities and their overall fitness.
Genome sequencing
Genome sequencing that cost the US government approximately $2.7 billion may soon cost a person less than $100 to order a whole body genome. This is after DNA sequencing giant Illumia unveiled their new machine in January 2017. It has the potential to disclose monogenic or multifactorial medical conditions, drug sensitivity and even the family history of patients. The nanomedicine age has dawned with nanoparticles and nanodevices being developed. These include robots that can swim in the blood of individuals to give diagnosis and deliver treatment. This is an amazing revolution in the field of medicine.
There is already a technology that alerts doctors when your personal data indicates an anomaly. In minutes of reception of the notification, you can be in contact with a doctor. It is only a matter of time before we realize the tangible benefits of these innovations.
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