Digital health refers to the use of information and communication technologies to manage illnesses and health risks and promote wellness in medicine and other health professions. Computing platforms, connectivity, software, and sensors are all used in digital health technologies for health care and other applications. These technologies can be used for a variety of purposes, ranging from general wellness to medical applications. They include technologies that are intended to be used as medical products, in medical products, as companion diagnostics, or as a supplement to other medical products.
These technologies have the potential to empower consumers to make better-informed health decisions and to open up new possibilities for disease prevention, early intervention of life-threatening diseases, and chronic condition management outside of traditional health care settings. Digital health technologies are being used by providers and other stakeholders in their efforts to:
- Expand health professionals’ reach – The goal of digital health innovations is to reduce the administrative burden and other monotonous aspects of the jobs of healthcare This allows them to spend more time interacting with patients and monitoring them. This is especially important for rural patients or clinics, as well as home-care/outpatients. Patients with clinical-grade technology in their pockets can provide their doctor with health information at any time.
- Re-model the relation between the patient and the doctor – With the assistance of digital health technologies, patients are involved in the design of their care and treatment plans. Quick, direct, and shared access to the patient’s health status improves the sense of partnership, trust, and transparency between patient and doctor.
- Prevent before treatment – Digital health technologies help individuals self-manage their health issues by monitoring and tracking symptoms regularly.
In conclusion, Digital health technologies can assist patients and consumers in better managing and tracking their health and wellness activities.