The future of the healthcare industry is dynamically changing in front of our eyes with a range of advanced digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), 3D printing, robotics and nanotechnology. Although the sector has familiarised itself with the latest developments to control the technology, there is still a long way to go. Since the pandemic, it has become quite evident how technology can potentially play an important role in shaping healthcare facilities, enhancing their quality and embracing the new digital era.
The global healthcare and IT market size was remarked at a value of US$74.2 billion in the year 2020. It is expected to grow at a rate (CAGR) of 10.7 per cent over the next few years. In line with this, there is a tremendous demand for the adoption of various preventive care measures that will contribute to the advancement of the healthcare division. Hence, this piece will explore how technology can play a dominant role in the healthcare industry and allow the amenities to diversify with its support and explores how technology can revolutionise this industry.
Genome sequencing
The overall human genome project costs approximately a whopping US$2.7 billion which is only expected to rise in the coming years. In 2017, a DNA sequencing company, Illumina had branched out a new machine where the tech giant declared that the whole genome would cost less than US$100. Following the year, the company released a statement saying they are working closely on achieving their target. This means that it wouldn’t be surprising if genetic tests would eventually become as cheap as standard blood tests. With the reliance on technology and digital tools, this niche area has great potential and can act as a viable tool in understanding drug sensitivity, multifactorial or monogenic medical conditions and many others. Such a discovery will only further leverage the advantages of genome sequencing and allow specialists to get more insights into nutrition, genomics and dietetics.
Nanotechnology
We are fast approaching the era of nanomedicine. Perhaps, in the next decade, nanoparticles and nanodevices will soon become popular drug delivery systems and can even play a crucial role in treating cancer. About two years ago, MIT researchers had created an electronic pill that could be controlled wirelessly. It could even relay diagnostic information and release drugs in response to swift smartphone commands. While a lot more testing is necessary for its safe establishment, there is certainly an opportunity to examine such ideas with the aid of technology.
Robotics
One of the most exciting growing fields of healthcare is robotics. From surgical robots to exoskeletons, there has been a massive development in this area. Many experts regard 2019 as a prominent year for exoskeletons. Europe had revealed their first exoskeleton-driven surgery and a tetraplegic who had the capability of controlling exoskeletons with his brain. There are many other robotic applications, from aided nurses to lift elderly patients to the ones with medical conditions related to their spinal cord. In the coming years, we can see robot companions support patients who suffer from loneliness, mental ailments or even assist with children with chronic diseases. As technology advances, there will be more practical applications of robotics in medicine.
In line with this, Capital University College is offering a Masters in E-Health Management, in partnership with Italy’s Rome Business School. The programme is ranked #89 under Eduniversal Ranking 2021, Best Masters. With an ideal balance in knowledge and practical experience, students will be studying under the patronage of SIT – the Italian Society of Telemedicine that will enhance their skills and competencies to learn, manage, understand and apply advanced techniques in the healthcare industry. This is a unique programme that combines electronic processes and communication strategies, bridging the gap between computer, health and communications and enabling one to become specialists in the health and management sector.
Serving over 20 years of his expertise in the education sector, Dr Batheja is actively involved in developing and structuring postgraduate programmes for healthcare professionals and making them better equipped with profound knowledge and practical experience.
