IoT in healthcare- Impact of IoT in the healthcare industry and its evolution

The IoT in healthcare is expected to touch a value of $352.88 billion by 2027. In 2019, the same value was limited to $57.62.

Since the involvement of technology in the healthcare sector, it has seen an evolution at a rapid speed. From the inception of X-ray machines to wireless fitness bands, the healthcare industry has evolved and evolved. In the modern era, due to the existence of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), we are lucky enough to enjoy the healthcare system, which is much more advanced compared to a couple of decades ago.

We have devices to monitor our heartbeats, pulses, blood pressure, sugar level, and more without the interference of any specialist. Apart from that, monitoring fitness is also easier now compared to the past.

A report by Fortune Business Insights says, in 2019, IoT in healthcare was $57.62 billion. Moreover, by 2027, it is projected to reach $352.88 billion. It also states that the recent Covid-19 pandemic has also affected the IoT in the healthcare industry crucially. People had to increase the adoption of IoT applications and devices, especially if they caught the virus.

What is IoT and how is it applied in the healthcare industry?

Before we discuss the use of IoT in healthcare, let’s understand how IoT works in short. Internet of things (IoT) is a network of devices that sends and receives data. In other words, IoT is used to share data between two or more devices. Moreover, the IoT can also be used to control the devices connected to the network.

In the healthcare industry, IoT is mainly used in devices such as smart beds, smartwatches, Glucose monitoring devices, and mental health monitoring, among others. IoT is also used to collect the patients’ data and to store it on a centralized network for easy control but extra security.

Effect of the Internet of Things in the healthcare industry:

Moving forward, we are discussing the crucial effects that IoT has on the healthcare industry. We will see how IoT has made the healthcare industry more advanced in terms of technology and how top IoT companies have adapted this technology.

1.Contact tracing apps became increasingly popular

When Covid-19 entered the world, these contact tracing apps turned out to be super useful. These IoT mobile applications were used to track the location of an individual along with their status of positive or negative. Moreover, with the help of the cloud storage network, the contact tracing apps were useful in storing and collecting the bulk Covid-19 data from the real user as well. These apps also alerted the user if they had been exposed to the virus by being in contact with the Covid positive user.

2. Remote healthcare monitoring system

The IoT mobile applications are enabling users to keep track of their health without having to visit medical experts too often. With the help of smart devices such as fitness bands or smartwatches, these IoT applications in healthcare are making continuous health monitoring easier. Users can measure their heartbeats and pulse within seconds and store or share the data with a few taps.

3. Cloud storage to save and share medical records

Now, keeping the medical history is not too difficult for the user. With healthcare apps, users can store their medical history and even share it easily with anyone they want. Moreover, a few health apps are even using blockchain technology to make sure that healthcare data remains safe. Top healthcare app development companies also add features so that users can upload and review their healthcare records virtually anywhere.

4. Resolving the appointment issues

Now, due to the existence of IoT mobile applications, users do not have to go through the hectic ways of booking appointments. A few years back, appointments were dependent upon the calls or a visit to the reception. However, the IoT applications in healthcare have changed that. Now, users can see the availability of slots online, receive alerts when these slots are available, and book them instantly without any hassle. Thus, more healthcare providers are now focusing on IoT app development to assist more patients.

5. Medical alerts or fast emergency responses

With the help of IoT healthcare devices, it is possible to enable alerts for the patient such as medicine schedules. Moreover, with the help of IoT device sensors, it is also possible to keep track of the patients’ real-time health. In case of emergencies, IoT devices are also able to request emergency services to save the patients’ life from seizures, heart attacks, etc.

6. Virtual consultancy and therapy

IoT is filling the gap between the patient and the medical specialist. Moreover, it is expected that the future of IoT in healthcare will majorly include virtual therapies for minor diseases such as cold, fever, etc. The top healthcare app development company MDLIVE is an example of the same.

7. Robotic surgery is getting adapted

Robotic surgery is done by robots connected through the internet. These robots are used to perform complex surgeries for extra accuracy. Moreover, this procedure also reduces the chances of human error. The devices are designed to make sure that they perform surgeries with the least disruption possible. Currently, many advanced hospitals have already adopted the technology.

8. Connected inhalers are saving lives

These inhalers are used to monitor the frequency of attacks and to collect the data accordingly. Moreover, these devices also focus on possible triggers that could cause an attack. Along with that, connected inhalers are capable of providing warnings if a user forgets the inhaler at home or uses it improperly.

9. Mental health monitoring and assistance

Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or mood fluctuations, these IoT devices are capable of keeping a track of such conditions. Moreover, the IoT apps are also capable of addressing the challenges and assisting the user through them.

Conclusion

What impact will the IoT have on the health care sector?

Well, with time, it is clear that IoT will expand its coverage more in the healthcare industry. More smart devices will come into existence and app developers will focus on building healthcare apps with more features. The market is still blooming, and now when there are more than 3 billion smartphone users, there is so much scope for the healthcare app development industry.