The healthcare industry has a history of sluggishness when it comes to embracing new technology. As a result of budget constraints, lack of time, and failure to allocate resources, the medical sector generally lags behind other industries when it comes to investing in technology and the needed cyber security that accompanies it. For those and other reasons, companies in the healthcare industry were prime targets for cyber attacks in 2021.
There is a current explosion of digital technology changing the game for the medical field, making this an exciting time full of possibilities for the industry. Here is a list of the most promising opportunities for healthcare technology in 2021.
1. Artificial Intelligence
Expected to grow at a rate of 40% through 2021, the use of AI can mitigate medical risks in important ways:
- Generating automated reminders for patients to take medication
- Identifying patients at greatest risk, triggering staff alerts for custom care plans
- Delivering personalized recommendations for prescription dosages
2. Blockchain
Blockchain is an ultra-secure system of recording data. Given the huge impact that the cyber attacks in 2021 had on the healthcare industry, blockchain is highly anticipated for the following benefits:
- Changing access to and methods of collecting data
- Updating user interaction with healthcare advertising
- Increasing security by reforming ownership of and access to digital assets
3. Voice Search
40% of American adults conduct a voice search at least once a day. By optimizing healthcare marketing and landing pages for voice searches, medical organizations can capitalize on the growing popularity of this media for local searches.
4. Chatbots
The healthcare industry relies on personalized services, and chatbots improve the opportunities for additional personal touchpoints. The quality and accessibility of chatbots are continuing to increase, offering endless options ranging from customer service to diagnosing mild illness.
5. Virtual Reality
Virtual reality offers endless possibilities for engaging with patients and staff members. It can be used for calming the nerves of current and potential patients by conducting facility tours, assisting with pain management, and previewing upcoming procedures. In addition, the technology can be used to orient new employees, train existing staff on new procedures, and even assist in performing surgeries.
6. Personalized Mobile Apps
Mobile apps provide a unique opportunity for healthcare companies to engage the user while remaining in control of the available options. Patients can benefit from these mobile applications in a number of ways, including:
- Making appointments
- Checking in
- Uploading patient history
- Paying bills
- Checking test results
- Maintaining medical history
- Receiving alerts regarding allergy season, medications, or check-ups
- Tracking health changes to share with a physician
Technology has many benefits on the horizon to improve healthcare, including marketing options, patient communication, data quality and security, and actual medical procedures. By engaging in these new opportunities, the healthcare industry is poised for a technology explosion that will increase the level of care available across the country.
About Connected Risk Solutions
At Connected Risk Solutions, we use our expertise and experience to provide insurance information and programs to those who serve long-term care and senior living facilities. Since 2007, we’ve been offering insurance and risk management plans designed to help our agents give their clients the ability to achieve continued growth while simultaneously protecting against loss, containing costs and increasing profitability. With three offices to serve you in Chicago, Illinois; Phoenix, Arizona; and Burlington, Connecticut, we do everything we can to make your experience with us as professional and transparent as possible. To learn more, contact us at (877) 890-9301.
