The healthcare sector has been undergoing a challenging process of digital transformation for over a decade. Digital health is completely transforming our healthcare system – COVID-19 has only accelerated the critical necessity of digitization.

Innovators in healthcare are leading us into the future, creating technologies that set the standard for the quality of medical care. Here are several digital health trends that are modernizing the healthcare industry:

1. Telemedicine

Telemedicine was already making strides in reaching consumers before the arrival of COVID-19, but the pandemic unquestionably accelerated this process and its further expansion.

In 2021, the focus was on virtual consultations (when applicable) and providing opportunities for remote medical assistance in areas that previously lacked access to healthcare. In 2022 and beyond, telemedicine is poised to become a global standard in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities.

2. Self-Monitoring

Imagine a program for monitoring the health status of patients after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, continuously tracking the body's condition.

Devices and sensors for self-monitoring help detect numerous symptoms. Smartwatches, sensor patches, and pulse oximeters – these are all devices aiding patients in self-monitoring. These devices and sensors will become more widespread.

3. Digital Health Apps

Digital health apps are rapidly evolving, mainly due to the acceleration of digitization in healthcare and well-being associated with the pandemic. In 2020, consumers were introduced to over 90,000 new digital health apps. Currently, consumers have access to a total of 350,000 digital health apps, with 47% aimed at managing specific diseases and health conditions.

Digital health apps provide more information than ever directly in the hands of healthcare system users. However, for this innovative technology to truly improve processes, apps still have a long way to go in terms of data unification.

4. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated practically every aspect of our lives, including digital technologies in healthcare.

AI in healthcare will continue to significantly contribute to predicting the onset of diseases and aiding in the discovery of new drugs. However, it also has the potential to help create a functional database of medical technologies.

5. Electronic Medical Records on Cloud Platforms

Patient records will no longer be stored in paper form and pulled from cabinets in doctors' offices. Everything will be digital. Currently, healthcare providers use cloud platforms to store patient medical records, making data more secure and reliable while improving accessibility.

This digitization of patient medical records will not only continue to enhance processes and operations in healthcare but will also pave the way for greater patient engagement and personalization.

6. Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are expected to grow at a rate of 30.7% annually between 2017 and 2025.

In healthcare, virtual reality helps intern doctors learn and plan surgical interventions, assisting surgeons in gaining more confidence in performing procedures before they actually occur. VR also contributes to supporting mental health and managing chronic pain.

7. Accurate and Accessible Information

Quality digital healthcare allows patients to quickly receive accurate information. These data must be systematically reviewed for differences and discrepancies. Any inaccuracies should be disclosed to the patient.

8. Enhanced User Experience

One of the most critical aspects of extensive digital healthcare is an excellent user experience. The main goal of digital experiences is convenience and comfort. Patients should easily find relevant information to independently use technology.

9. Increased Focus on Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a significant concern in the digital environment, but it is especially crucial for the healthcare industry as it involves highly sensitive patient data. Digital health technologies must guarantee the protection of vital information while ensuring data transparency so patients can access and control their data.