Technology continues its race forward in artificial intelligence, wearables, the Internet of Things and 3D Printing. Some of these technologies are impacting radiology now. Others have gained a foothold in the medical profession and trickle into the diagnostic imaging.
According to best doctors in New Jersey, this is the most interesting time in the history of healthcare and medicine. There are so many new technologies and redesigned experiences impacting both the value we deliver as well as the value patients are getting from healthcare.
Artificial Intelligence in Radiology
Radiologists can breathe easy – for now – but need to build on the new technology by adding value through working more closely with the doctors. The upcoming of wearable visual-overlay devices has also been on a high. Tools such as Google Glass and Microsoft’s HoloLens for viewing a hologram can add information to an image guided intervention. Similarly, Google Glass can display the field of view during an ultrasound exam. These devices can also foster alliance among referring physicians, radiologists and colleagues.
3D anatomical models
3D printing is an area which has excited radiologists and other clinicians as an opportunity to bring to life studies which are previously available in 3D, CT or MRI modalities.
Collaboration by mobile device isn’t just the future – it’s here now!
Some of the applications listed by Garden State Medical Group :
- Teledoc : This is a service accessible by app in the Apple store or in Google Play which claims to have 17 million members connected to licensed healthcare professionals such primary care physicians, therapists and dermatologists. You can connect via video or phone call.
- Carolinas HealthCare System engaged in a pilot to reduce hospital readmission among patients with a primary diagnosis of heart failure. During the pilot, “patients met with the team via telemedicine, using basic video conferencing and a peripheral stethoscope.”
These are just a few examples amongst the many.
Internet of Things
The final two technologies are IoT (Internet of Things) which has been around on steroids since 2008, when the number of connected devices exceeded the number of people on the planet. Since then, a number of applications have emerged—ranging from remote inventory monitoring to remote health monitoring, controlling energy use, and monitoring engine performance. These and several other uses explain why the IoT sector is growing rapidly.
Wearables have truly come of age!
Many radiologists are actually a part of this trend as they wear smartwatches. Most of them place a variety of health and fitness apps on the wrist. Some known ones are Apple Watch and Pebble and many are compatible with both the App store and Google Play. The doctors are working on new smartwatch to help the nurses manage the workload.
However, technology will continue to shape healthcare imaging as it does almost all aspect of our daily lives. Which of these technologies do you think will have the most impact in healthcare imaging? Which ones will fizzle out? Garden State Medical Group would like to know!