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In healthcare, a well-designed healthcare app can be a lifesaver – literally. If done right, it’s a powerful tool that can transform how care is delivered and how patients manage their health.

Healthcare apps should make life easier for users. That means that a truly successful application has to be built with how people actually use it in mind.

Peter Morville’s UX Honeycomb is a great way to break down UX design’s components:

• Usefulness. Does this actually help someone? Does it make managing their health simpler?
• Usability. Can people figure it out, or will opening it cause a headache?
• Desirability. Does it look and feel good enough that people want to use it?
• Findability. Can people easily find that old test result or setting?
• Accessibility. Everyone should be able to use the best tools for their health. Does it work for people with disabilities?
• Credibility. Health info is serious. Does the company and app feel trustworthy and secure?
• Is it worth the effort, or will it sit unused on their phone?

These are the kinds of questions that make for amazing healthcare apps. Every top digital product design company understands that it’s not just about the features — it’s about the whole experience fitting into people’s lives.

Challenges in Healthcare App Design

Healthcare apps have the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives, but let’s be honest, designing them isn’t exactly a walk in the park.

Here’s why:

• The complexity of healthcare data. Healthcare app design needs to make that dense health data feel understandable, even actionable. But how to achieve this is something that a designer should have in mind.
• Privacy and security concerns. In healthcare, one security slip-up can have serious consequences. Balancing top-notch protection with a user-friendly app is a major design task. Designers must adhere to strict regulatory standards, such as HIPAA in the United States or the DPA 2018 in the United Kingdom. Privacy policies should be made easy to understand.
• Integration with existing systems. Getting hospital and clinic systems to communicate with an app is no easy feat, even for an experienced designer. Your app’s ability to function with a hospital or clinic’s electronic health record (EHR) system is crucial.
• Diverse user base. Picture the range of people using a healthcare app – from young people who live on their phones to seniors who might be less tech-savvy, and even rushed doctors needing info on the fly. Trying to design something that works for everyone is a tall order.

Approaches for Overcoming Challenges in Healthcare App Design

As noted earlier, healthcare app designs have their own unique set of challenges, but with the right approaches, they can be tackled:

• A/B Testing. According to Harvard Business School, A/B testing increases performance in various areas. With A/B testing, you show two slightly different versions of a feature, content, or design to different groups of users to know which one they’d prefer. This data-driven approach takes the guesswork out of design.
• Heuristic Evaluation. Sometimes, you need fresh eyes. Usability experts conduct heuristic evaluations — a design checkup according to established principles of heuristics to help spot potential hiccups in app design.
• Card Sorting. Card sorting helps you find out how your app should be organised. You give users “cards” representing different app features, and they group them in ways that make sense to them.

4 Features That Improve Healthcare App Design

Let’s talk about some specific features that make a real difference in how people use them and how they impact health:

1. Progress Visualisations

Do you know how most people’s eyes glaze over at a spreadsheet of health numbers? Visualisation techniques help present health info in a comprehensible manner.

You can handle visualisation using the following:

• Line graphs. They’re good for tracking trends and can help show how those blood pressure meds are kicking in, or how medication adherence is making a real impact on mood stability.
• Bar Charts. They are perfect for the “before and after” story — pre-treatment lab results vs. now. That side-by-side bar chart can be motivating.
• Area Charts. Ever wonder why sleep quality is so inconsistent? These charts let users visualise those patterns alongside mood, or see how pain levels spike in the afternoon.

2. Biofeedback Integration

When you design an app that has a real-time conversation with the user’s body, you open up a whole new level of engagement and potential for behaviour change.

Through sensors (in wearables or connected devices), a user’s physiological data, like heart rate, breathing patterns, or muscle tension, is fed directly into the app, allowing them to get a more comprehensive picture of their health and risks and act proactively to improve their health.

With gamification, users can engage in healthy lifestyle patterns or behaviours, turning some boring tasks (like treatment plans) into exciting games.

3. Mood-Enhancing Colour Schemes

Our brains are wired to react to colour on a basic level. Colour psychology is a tool you can use to create a positive emotional experience for users.

Check out these healthcare app staples:

• Calmness and Trust. Blues and greens are the ultimate chill pills for our eyes. Perfect for apps where people might be anxious about their health or need to zone in for a meditation session.
• Positivity and Energy. Pops of orange and yellow pump up that “I can do this!” energy in the right context.
• Cleanliness and Sterility. Hospitals use so much white and light grey they project a sense of cleanliness and professionalism.

4. Blockchain-Powered Health Data Security

It’s understandable that blockchain can be a buzzword overload, but it has serious potential to make health data way more secure.

• Blockchain is like a digital record book that can’t be tampered with. Once the data is recorded on a blockchain, it’s impossible to change or delete it without the consensus of other participants of the network.
• Blockchain uses cryptography (hashing and digital signatures) for secure data transfer and access.
• Blockchain is harder to hack compared to traditional centralized systems. This adds to the security of sensitive healthcare data.

Conclusion

Designing a healthcare app that people want to use requires employing various design concepts and trends. A good product needs to fit into someone’s life, help follow treatment plans, make the routine a habit, and highlight potential risks while educating on how to minimise them.

Healthcare apps can be exciting and fun to use if there are visuals, game elements, intuitive navigation, and nice colour palettes. When done right, they can improve lives, build trust, and revolutionise the patient experience.

Discover the top 7 healthcare companies on CB Insights' list of the most promising AI startups of 2024. See how they were chosen and who made the cut.

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The American Medical Association (AMA) has disclosed the profound and lasting repercussions of the Change Healthcare cyberattack, illustrating the precarious state of physician practices across the United States. The findings, unveiled in an informal survey report, underscore a landscape fraught with financial turmoil and jeopardized patient care in the wake of the devastating hack.

Conducted from March 26 to April 3, the survey found that 36% of respondents reporting the suspension of claim payments. Furthermore, 32% lamented their inability to submit claims, while 22% found themselves unable to verify eligibility for benefits. Particularly vulnerable to the fallout are practices housing ten physicians or fewer, bearing the brunt of the crisis.

Read on medicaleconomics.com

Imran Qureshi is chief technology officer at b.well Connected Health, a FHIR-based interoperability platform vendor. He has expertise in AI and a lot of advice to share on the subject of health systems harnessing ChatGPT and other large language model-based technologies.

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It therefore comes as little surprise to learn that 53% of all digital health apps are uninstalled within 30 days of download.

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NAACOs, AMA, AHIP join for second volume of recommendations for payment arrangements.

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Before deploying the technology, staff was 67% core staff, 8% flexible staff and 25% agency staff. Afterward, the mix became 69% core, 23% flexible and gig staff, and only 8% agency staff.

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Creating annotated bibliographies is an essential skill for student medical researchers. It involves not only listing sources but also providing a summary and critical assessment of each reference. This guide is tailored to help you craft a comprehensive and effective annotated bibliography, which is crucial for supporting your research and understanding the scope of your study within the field of medical research.

What is an Annotated Bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a detailed list of citations to books, articles, and documents. Each citation is followed by a brief (usually about 150 words) descriptive and evaluative paragraph, known as the annotation. The purpose of the annotation is to inform the reader of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of the sources cited.

What is Student Medical Research?

Student medical research refers to scholarly activities undertaken by students in the medical field to expand knowledge, test hypotheses, and explore innovative solutions to health-related questions. This type of research can encompass a variety of methodologies, including experimental, observational, and theoretical studies. Students might investigate drug efficacy, explore disease mechanisms, improve surgical techniques, or evaluate public health interventions.

The purpose is not only to contribute to medical science but also to enhance the students’ learning experience through practical engagement with their field of study. By participating in research, medical students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of evidence-based medicine.

Why is it Important in Student Medical Research?

In the context of medical research, an annotated bibliography serves multiple purposes:

• Enhances Research Skills: It helps students learn to find, analyze, and digest relevant literature efficiently.
• Promotes Critical Thinking: Evaluating sources encourages critical thinking about the content and its application to your specific research area.
• Provides a Literature Review: It offers a snapshot of the current knowledge and debates on a particular topic.
• Supports Research Proposals: It is often used to justify the need for research and to demonstrate existing knowledge.

How to Create an Annotated Bibliography

1. Selecting Sources

The first step is to select relevant and credible sources that pertain to your medical research topic. Look for peer-reviewed journals, books, and conference papers that provide valuable insights and data. Prioritize recent publications to ensure up-to-date information, unless historical perspectives are necessary.

2. Citations

Each source should be cited according to a specific academic style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). This citation includes all necessary details like author(s), publication year, title, and publication details.

3. Writing Annotations

For each citation, write an annotation that includes:

• Summary: Briefly describe the main idea of the source.
• Evaluation: Critically evaluate the source for its reliability, validity, and bias. Discuss the author’s credentials and the publication’s reputation.
  • Reflection: Reflect on how the source is useful for your research. Discuss how it contributes to your understanding of the topic or how it might shape your research methodology.

Writing an annotated bibliography can present various challenges, especially when dealing with extensive research. The sheer volume of sources to be analyzed and annotated demands significant time and effort, and each entry must be crafted according to precise academic standards. This meticulous task requires not only a deep understanding of the subject matter but also the ability to succinctly summarize and critically evaluate a wide array of information.

For students overwhelmed by the scope of their research or constrained by time, managing this task can be daunting. In such cases, seeking professional help can be a wise decision. Services like EduBirdie offer specialized assistance, allowing students to request write my annotated bibliography and receive expert help tailored to meet academic requirements and deadlines, ensuring a high-quality, comprehensive annotated bibliography that supports their research effectively.

Specifics of Creating an Annotated Bibliography in Student Medical Research

Creating an annotated bibliography in student medical research demands meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of the topic at hand. Each annotation must not only summarize the source but also evaluate its relevance and reliability in the context of medical research. Here are some specific considerations to keep in mind:

• Source Selection: Due to the rapidly evolving nature of medical science, it’s crucial to use the most current and peer-reviewed sources available. These sources should offer significant insight into the medical questions being studied.
• Clinical Relevance: Each source should be evaluated for its clinical relevance and potential impact on patient care, which is a central concern in medical research.
• Methodological Assessment: Pay special attention to the methodologies used in the research articles. A thorough understanding of these methods is essential to evaluate the credibility and applicability of the findings.
• Ethical Considerations: Medical research often involves critical ethical considerations, especially in human or animal studies. Annotations should reflect the ethical standards adhered to in the studies.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Given the interdisciplinary nature of medical research, consider how each source interacts with others from different disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, or public health.

Incorporating these specifics into your annotations will not only improve the quality of your bibliography but also enhance your understanding of the complex and interdisciplinary landscape of medical research.

Tips for Effective Annotations

• Be Concise: Keep each annotation brief and to the point.
• Use Academic Language: Maintain a formal tone suitable for academic work.
• Be Critical: Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each source.
• Reflect Personally: Make it clear how each source fits into your research context.

Examples of Annotations in Medical Research

Here’s an example of what an annotation might look like for a medical research paper:

APA Citation: Smith, J. (2020). Effects of New Alzheimer’s Medication. New York, NY: Health Press.

Annotation: This book provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in Alzheimer’s medication. Smith, a renowned neurologist, draws on numerous studies to discuss potential treatment breakthroughs. The book is well-researched, with extensive references to peer-reviewed articles. It is particularly useful for my research as it covers a gap in the literature regarding long-term medication effects. However, the book does not discuss alternative treatments extensively, which is a noted limitation.

An annotated bibliography is not just a formal requirement but a valuable component of academic research, especially in the medical field. It forces you to think critically about the literature, to assess its value to your own work, and to keep a clear record of the evolving landscape of medical research. By mastering this skill, you enhance your understanding of both the breadth and depth of your subject area, paving the way for a successful research project.

Digital dentistry means using latest technology to make dentistry easier and better. With this dentists won’t use messy stuff to make molds of your teeth. Now they can use digital tools to take accurate pictures of your teeth. This makes fillings or other procedures much more comfy. Now you don’t have to deal with gooey stuff in your mouth. It’s also called CAD/CAM. This is like magic for making artificial teeth. With this, dentists can quickly make new teeth. It perfectly fits in your mouth. This means you spend less time in the dentist’s chair. And also your new teeth look and feel better. Basically, this dentistry uses latest gadgets to make your dentist visits quicker. Also they are more accurate and less messy. So, you can smile big because your teeth are in good hands.

Laser Dentistry 

Laser technology has made dentistry less scary. Now dentists won’t use drills and sharp tools. They can now use special lasers for lots of different treatments. These lasers are tiny. Moreover they are super accurate beams of light. They can do things like fixing cavities and shaping gums. They are also helpful for doing surgeries on soft tissues in your mouth. One of the best things about laser dentistry is that it’s not as painful as traditional methods. You feel less discomfort during the treatment. You can also recover faster. Plus, lasers are so precise. They can do their job without making your gums bleed much. With this you might not even need anesthesia. Lasers are so exact and gentler with your teeth. This means they can fix problems while keeping your natural tooth. This is great for your long-term oral health. If you’re scared of regular dentist tools, this is a good option for you. It’s a modern way to take care of your teeth. This technology keeps your smile shining bright.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Dentistry 

This is the main innovation in the upcoming year. It’s a super smart assistant that helps your dentist make your teeth healthier. That’s what artificial intelligence does in dentistry. AI is like a really precise computer program. It can look at lots of information. Also it precisely takes pictures of teeth and has data about patients. It helps your dentist to figure out what’s best for your smile. Dentists use these special AI algorithms to study big sets of information about patient’s teeth. This helps dentists diagnose problems earlier. With this they can plan treatments that are right for each person. AI can help predict if someone might get a cavity soon. Also how braces might change their smile. With AI dentists can make smarter choices about your teeth. They can catch problems early. By this they can create treatments that are perfect for you. So in the future AI will help make dentist visits even better.

Conclusion

These cool new inventions are just the beginning of how dentistry is getting better and better. They make it easier for dentists to figure out what’s going on with your teeth. So they can do treatments more precisely. These innovations also make sure you’re comfy during your visit. It’s like stepping into an amazing future. Dentists are now able to give you even better care using these amazing new tools. With these they can even make a top-notch treatment to keep your teeth healthy.

If you want to experience these innovations in dentistry, BK Dental is here to serve! Their dental office is like stepping into the future. They have all the latest technology like digital dentistry and laser innovations for teeth. They can take super accurate pictures of your teeth without any mess. Their laser technology makes treatments easier and less painful. At BK Dental, they combine all these amazing technologies to give you the best care possible. Their goal is to make your smile the best.

In the future, dentistry will revive so many other innovations. It includes virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). With VR and AR you could take a visit inside your own mouth. Also can see what a treatment will be like before it even happens. How cool is that. So, the future of dentistry is full of new possibilities. We can’t wait to see what’s next!

We collected eight of our favorite medical innovations that show how a little out-of-the-box thinking is leading to big changes in healthcare.

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Syndromic panels may offer a better prognosis for patients, increased hospital cost savings, and help address the AMR crisis.

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On the horizon, other disruptive technologies are emerging, poised to facilitate even more culturally appropriate care than is...

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Gastric sleeve surgery has become a popular option for weight loss in locations like Tijuana, Mexico. According to individuals who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery at Tijuana Bariatric Center, their blood pressure and cholesterol levels have normalized. They also became more active and even started jogging. According to the hospital, you can lose 60 to 70 percent of excess weight when you undergo surgery.

Are You a Potential Candidate?

The basis of guidelines for weight loss surgery is body mass index (BMI). BMI is a tool used to estimate your body fat based on your weight and height. Surgery for weight loss might be a good option for an adult with a BMI of 40 or higher.

Some other common criteria for this surgery are as follows:

• A BMI of greater than 35
• Having at least one obesity-related health condition
• At least six months in a supervised weight loss program

In certain cases, weight-loss surgery could offer a solution for adolescents struggling with severe obesity. However, there are strict guidelines in place.

• BMI of more than 40, even without any additional obesity-related conditions
• BMI is 35 or above, and you also have a severe medical condition linked to your weight

It’s crucial to remember that these are guidelines, not guarantees. Only a qualified bariatric surgeon can determine if you are a suitable candidate after a full evaluation. This will include your medical history, current health, and an in-depth weight-loss journey discussion.

Your Mindset and Habits Matter

Weight loss surgery goes way beyond the operating room. True success means transforming your whole lifestyle – how you eat, move, and manage your mental well-being. Your healthcare team is there to ensure you’re prepared for this major adjustment.

They’ll want to discuss your motivation, willingness to embrace new habits, and any past attempts at weight loss. Understanding where you’ve been helps them tailor the right support plan for the future. They’ll also look at eating habits, such as struggles with binge eating, skipping meals, or late-night snacking, which need special attention.

Lastly, mental health matters! Depression, anxiety, or other challenges can make it harder to maintain changes. Your team may suggest treatment to get you in the best possible headspace before your surgery. Remember, Address things like substance use, which can sabotage your weight loss and health goals. It is also a crucial factor in determining your readiness.

Pre-Surgery Action Plan

If you and your team decide bariatric surgery is the right path, they’ll create a personalized plan to ensure you’re in the best shape possible for success. This plan will likely cover:

• Nutrition Overhaul: Your dietitian becomes your go-to guide for healthy eating. They’ll outline what to eat, how much, and those essential vitamin supplements. This starts way before surgery and continues long after.
• Getting Active: An exercise expert will help you find the right workouts, create a plan that works, and set those fitness goals.
• Weight Loss Headstart: Sometimes, you’ll be encouraged (or even required) to lose some weight through diet and exercise before the procedure.
• Mindset Matters: You might start therapy for any eating disorders, depression, or other mental health factors. It’s about building healthy coping skills and tackling anything that might make your journey harder.
• Quitting Smoking: If you’re a smoker, programs and support will be offered to help you quit.
• Managing Other Health Conditions: It’s important to get any other health issues under control for the best surgical outcomes and long-term success.

Takeaway

Gastric sleeve surgery is a powerful tool but not a magic solution. It’s a serious decision that demands careful consideration. Prioritize your health by seeking professional guidance, weighing the benefits and risks, and honestly examining your readiness for this major life change. Remember, the best decision is the one you make with full understanding and support.

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Going into surgery can be a scary thought and tough for everyone involved. So, knowing that there is technology out there that can make it safer will make all the difference before you go into the Operating Room (OR).

Also, give your loved ones advice so they don’t need to worry. As a result, in this article, let’s talk about pioneering devices that make the OR a safer place.

• Intraoperative Imaging Devices

MRI, CT scans and ultrasounds can help surgeons to understand what their patient needs. There are also other devices, such as self-retaining surgical retractors, that can help doctors find out what’s going on. It can also help students improve visibility while they are studying and learn more about it in real time.MRI and CT scans create high-resolution images that enable surgeries to be performed with as much knowledge as they’re able to see. Soft tissues, blood flow and babies within the womb can all be seen with these devices. As technology advances, this technology will only become better and safer for those who need to go into surgery and also change the process when coming out too.

2) Robotic technology

In a world where AI and robotic technology are transforming the way we work and live our lives, it can make a huge impact on surgery and safety.

The da Vinci Surgical System is one to take note of. It provides surgeons with more precision and control when they’re performing complex procedures. This is done through a set of surgical instruments to use whilst doing the procedure, and it gives them a more focused approach. Your Doctor is still performing the surgery, just with enhanced help for dexterity and control, which can help with any human error and better recovery times.

3) Navigation systems

Surgical navigation systems are pioneering in neurosurgery, creating imaging that allows surgeons to provide detailed information. This type of surgery can be integral to getting it right and accurate because it can be so risky.

It can enable surgeons to have an accurate perspective and plan the procedure accordingly for the best results. It’s also a lot less invasive so that patients will have less of a battling recovery – and they can get back to their healthiest in a quicker time.

Making the OR safer

There’s no doubt that technology is going to continue to advance in the future. But these pioneering surgical devices help surgeons and doctors do their job efficiently and effectively. It creates an entirely new level of accuracy and ability to make things safer for patients and gives them the best possibility to do their jobs. It also gives families and patients more peace of mind and better healing opportunities post-surgery.

Conclusion

So, whether it’s an MRI, Ultrasound, a self-retaining retractor or a robot, this type of technology can really change how medical procedures go and can change the trajectory of what it looks like from pre to post surgery and give a lot more peace of mind during the process.

Meanwhile, it's already finding success with AI-enabled patient portals – and ambient scribing is showing big promise too. The Baltimore health system's digital health physician leader explains.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) unveils S.A.R.A.H., an AI-powered digital health promoter, available 24/7 in eight languages via video...

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Health care organizations must proactively operationalize key risk mitigation strategies aimed at effectively shoring up their cyber defenses.

Read on medicaleconomics.com

The accomplishment puts the health system in a better position to attract and retain the talent that is so critical to its ability to serve its patients, says its VP of operations.

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The impending arrival of autonomous inpatient coding is a remarkable breakthrough for health systems. Recent advancements in deep learning

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AI in the global healthcare market is predicted to reach $188 billion by 2030. AI is helping with personal profiling in many industries like Healthcare, Retail, eCommerce, Banking and Finance, Logistics, etc. With artificial intelligence in healthcare, doctors can suggest the diagnosis by incorporating the essence of past history. Moreover, AI reduces the possibility of human errors with regard to test results, imaging, claims processing, etc. There is no doubt about the myriad benefits that AI brings to the table. Before going into AI’s rising trends and implications in healthcare, let’s quickly learn the benefits.

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How AI is Revolutionizing Healthcare

• AI automates tasks and analyzes big data for faster and better healthcare process.
• AI can automate administrative tasks like insurance pre-authorization and unpaid bill follow-ups.
• Processing big data sets can lead to predictive benefits and improved healthcare service.
• Wearable healthcare technology, like FitBits and smartwatches, uses AI to alert users and healthcare professionals about potential health issues.
• AI in technology eases healthcare professionals’ workload and prevents unnecessary hospital visits.

6 Trends That Will Define AI for Health and Healthcare

We see an overlap of several trends when it comes to analyzing how AI works its way into our lives. Let’s look at how six latest trends are converging to make AI in healthcare:

1.      Big Data

There is a vast amount of varied data in the healthcare sector. For example, it was found that around 11000 new articles are published in dermatology alone every year.

Dealing with data manually has become outdated, but integrating AI into the analysis will surely speed up the process. Healthcare providers can plan how to deal with certain procedures by accessing records and the latest research articles on certain diagnoses. Innovations can be done with more confidence since they have data to back them. Test results can be analyzed and shared anonymously among providers having similar visions.

2.      Wearable Devices

The number of people willing to include wearable devices is increasing. Healthcare providers are taking advantage of this to monitor heart rate and other vitals so that diagnoses can be determined and procedures planned accordingly. The elderly community seems to benefit from this immensely. Integrating AI into ordinary medical devices and others might even diminish the need for a large number of devices to monitor each vital separately. Some experts are even trying to figure out whether the information found from such devices will help in preventing disease.

3.      Willingness of the General Public

Is it because it’s the latest healthcare marketing trend? Maybe, but perhaps the educated population sees the benefits garnered from easily using AI. The general public’s keenness to play a more active role in their health has reached a crucial point. A Care Anywhere survey discovered how advancements in technology and the extensive use of the Internet of Things (IoT) are breaking down healthcare barriers and letting care to be accessed from anywhere.

4.      Resource Allocation

A lot of the decisions lie on the shoulders of C-level executives. AI helps in reducing infrastructure costs and space that can be better allocated for technology and diagnoses identification. A lot of healthcare providers find that the infrastructure used currently is actually not required. Having a patient-centric system by integrating AI is found to be better than the hospital-centric approach. When dealing with a larger population, this might turn out to be the most efficient manner.

5.      Machine Learning (ML)

Machine learning (ML) algorithms are being used to figure out patterns and aid in diagnoses. Artificial intelligence and ML in healthcare helps detect even the slightest of changes in reports and is also used in precision medicine. The simulations created for pharmaceutical developers can speed up the discovery and development process.

6.      Natural Language Processing (NLP)

This form of AI detects human language. You might have already experienced it on your smartphones, smart TVs and more. But when it comes to healthcare, NLP improves accuracy as well as gives rise to more of a personalized approach to diagnoses. Dealing with more data at a time can also be done easily. Relevant treatments and potential threats can be found with an analysis of past history.

AI Usage in Each Healthcare Department

Want to know how AI helps in different healthcare departments? Let’s find out for some of the major ones.

Cardiovascular

AI algorithms in cardiovascular medicine are proving successful in diagnosing heart disease and stratifying patients, serving as a useful triage tool. These algorithms also predict patient mortality, medication effects, and outcomes post-treatment for acute coronary syndrome. Wearables and smartphones track cardiac data, improving early detection of heart issues. AI is being explored for classifying heart sounds and detecting valvular disease, but it is facing challenges like limited training data and a lack of comparisons between AI and humans. Recent research shows AI to be as effective as humans in interpreting cardiac tests and diagnosing heart attacks. AI also enhances cardiovascular tissue engineering and organoid studies by aiding in microscopy image analysis and integrating electrophysiological data.

Dermatology

Studies have shown successful skin cancer detection and classification using deep learning techniques. However, concerns have been raised about disparities in skin color representation. Recent developments have discovered the use of AI in assessing facial surgery outcomes and cleft palate therapy. Research has shown that a deep-learning AI system can perceive skin cancer more precisely than human dermatologists.

Gastroenterology

Endoscopic tests like Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopies need to detect abnormal tissue quickly. Integrating AI into these procedures can help clinicians identify diseases faster, assess their severity, and view areas that are difficult to see. Initial studies on AI detection systems for early gastric cancer have demonstrated similar sensitivity to expert endoscopists.

Infectious Diseases

AI in infectious diseases has demonstrated potential in both laboratory and clinical settings. While AI has been utilized for various purposes such as detecting COVID-19 responses and identifying antimicrobial resistance, its direct use in clinical practice during the pandemic has been limited. Other applications include AI analyzing blood smears for malaria, improving Lyme disease testing, and enhancing diagnosis and treatment prediction for various diseases.

Musculoskeletal

AI has been utilized to detect reasons for knee pain missed by doctors. Underserved populations have higher pain levels, even after adjusting for severe diseases like osteoarthritis. This suggests that external factors like stress may contribute to their pain. Researchers used a machine learning algorithm to reveal overlooked features that affect the diagnosis and treatment of underserved populations with knee pain.

Neurology

AI technologies have been investigated in neurology for diagnosing and predicting Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Machine learning models using structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) inputs have been developed for diagnosis, drawing data from databases like the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Convolutional neural networks have enhanced early diagnostic accuracy, while generative adversarial networks have shown promise in diagnosing AD. Additionally, efforts are being made to create machine learning models for predicting patient prognosis, using generative models to forecast outcomes and generate larger training datasets for future models.

Oncology

In oncology, AI has been explored for various purposes, including cancer diagnosis, risk assessment, tumor molecular profiling, and pharmaceutical discovery. One of the critical challenges AI addresses in oncology is accurately predicting the most effective treatment protocols tailored to each patient’s unique genetic, molecular and tumor characteristics. AI has shown promise in cancer diagnostics by converting images into numerical sequences for interpreting imaging studies and pathology slides. Recent studies have demonstrated that AI systems surpass human experts in breast cancer detection and achieve high accuracy in identifying prostate cancer. Additionally, AI has been successfully used for CT-based (computed tomography) radiomics classification to assess the aggressiveness of retroperitoneal sarcoma, outperforming traditional lab analysis of biopsies.

Challenges of AI in Healthcare

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Like any other, AI in healthcare doesn’t come without its own complications. With healthcare organizations spending more and more on utilizing AI across various tasks, tackling challenges specific to this technology is the need of the hour since numerous ethical and regulatory concerns may not be relevant in other industries.

Major challenges in the medical field include maintaining data privacy and security, patient safety and precision, training algorithms to identify patterns in medical data, integrating AI with current IT systems, obtaining physician acceptance and trust, and following federal regulations. Data privacy is of utmost importance as AI collects vast amounts of personal health data that could be misused without proper handling. Strong security measures are essential to safeguard sensitive patient information from exploitation.

Patient safety and precision are pivotal when utilizing artificial intelligence in healthcare. AI must be taught to identify patterns in medical data, comprehend connections between various diagnoses and treatments, and offer accurate recommendations customized for each patient. Additionally, integrating AI with current IT systems can add complications for medical professionals, requiring a thorough understanding of technology for seamless functioning.

Establishing trust and acceptance among healthcare providers is predominant for the effective implementation of AI in the medical field. Physicians must have faith in the AI’s reliability and transparency to allow for advice based on its research analysis. Furthermore, following federal regulations is necessary to guarantee the ethical use of AI and safeguard patient well-being.

Wrapping it up

There is no doubt that AI plays a major role in healthcare. Not only will it make all the processes quicker, but it will also greatly help humankind as a whole. Artificial intelligence in healthcare will improve overall health and bring prosperity to both the receivers and providers. Awareness of the rising trends will help us focus on the greater picture – a road to improvement.

In today’s tech world, telemedicine is transforming the healthcare industry. With busy schedules and other commitments, it is challenging to prioritize time and consult a healthcare provider in person. This is where telemedicine gaining popularity. It is the most effective and convenient to access diverse healthcare services through technology.

The rising evidence for enhanced quality care, and time saving benefit for both healthcare providers and users, Telemedicine is reducing hospital readmissions.

Telemedicine can deliver the full potential for better treatment. Healthcare providers and therapists use telemedicine to provide remote healthcare services and consultations to individuals with health issues through virtual platforms. Businesses can connect with healthcare provides via email database to promote their telemedicine software.

The global telemedicine market was valued at $114.98 billion in 2023. It is anticipated to grow at a 17.96% CAGR (compound annual growth rate) from 2024 to 2030.

The rise in telemedicine implementation by healthcare providers are the reasons for the growth of this market over the forecast period.

Moving forward! To determine the best telemedicine companies in the USA, we have gathered the Top 12 Telemedicine Companies in the Healthcare Industry. Read on to know which company made it to the list:

1.  HealthTap

Source: HealthTap

• Headquarters: California, USA.
• Founded: 2010
• Revenue: $65 million
• Consultation fee: $49.00

HealthTap is a medical group and technology Company that delivers Telemedicine through web and health applications. Their clientele includes health consumers, health systems, self-insured employees, and insurance companies.

With HealthTap web/Mobile application, health consumers can immediately connect or schedule a video conference, phone call, or text chat with a healthcare provider.

2. Teladoc Health, Inc.

Source: Teladoc

• Headquarters: New York, U.S.
• Founded: 2002
• Revenue: $660.2 million
• Consultation fee:$75

Teladoc is a virtual healthcare and multinational telemedicine company. It provides primary health services in telehealth, telehealth devices, licensable platforms services, AI and analytics, and medical opinions. This telemedicine company uses video conferencing and telephone software along with mobile applications to deliver streaming healthcare solutions.

3. Dr on Demand

Source: Dr on demand

• Headquarters: California, USA
• Founded: 2013
• Revenue: $75.9 million
• Consultation fee: $75/15 mins

Being a 24/7 telemedicine company, Dr on Demand provides healthcare solutions for mental and physical issues such as mental health, urgent care, primary care, preventative care, and chronic care. The company has board-certified healthcare providers and licensed psychologists serving through computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Services:

• Smart Referrals
• Digital Medical Home
• Expanded Clinical Capabilities

Categories:

The company specializes in several categories, including:

• Urgent Care
• Online Therapy
• Online Psychiatry
• Everyday Care
• Cold & flu
• Skin & hair conditions
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Headaches
• Everyday care
• Allergies
• Prescription refills

4. PlushCare:

Source: PlushCare

• Headquarters: San Francisco, CA.
• Founded: 2014
• Revenue: $50 million
• Consultation fee: $129.00 with no insurance and

$99 for follow-up visits.

PlushCare was started by Dr. James Wantuck and Ryan McQuaid, and in the initial days, this business was at the back of a doctor’s office. Now, the company has a team of 100+ physicians and employees.

Users can access PlushCare therapy services through its virtual platform. This telemedicine platform aids users in scheduling online appointments for diagnosis, treatments and medications.

5. Sesame Care:

Source: Sesame Care

• Headquarter: New York, USA.
• Founded: 2018
• Revenue: $25.8 million
• Consultation fee: Varies on different specialties

Sesame Care is the telemedicine company that offers affordable services and eliminates aching full fee payment for no insurance or high health insurance deductions.

Sesame provides high quality healthcare solutions at half-prized bills. Its services can be accessed without any hidden charges, no waiting time to see a healthcare provider, and without a health insurance.

Sesame Care is one of those telemedicine companies that offer in-house healthcare solutions and aims to accessibility of primary care services. It connects user with healthcare providers via online platforms. It provides treatment in skin care, women’s health, men’s health, urgent care, mental health, and more.

6. BetterHelp:

Source: BetterHelp

• Headquarters: California, USA.
• Founded: 2013
• Revenue: $7.7 million
• Consultation fee: $65 to $90

BetterHelp telemedicine provides professional therapy services. It consists of certified healthcare providers who offer services via phone calls, text messages and video conferences, allowing users to access therapies with ease.

BetterHelp also provides therapy for individual, couples and children. The aim of this telemedicine company is to offer customized therapy services addressing to users concerns.

7. MDLive:

Source: MDLive

• Headquarter: Florida, USA
• Founded: 2009
• Revenue: $100 million
• Consultation fee: $108-$248/per session

MDLive is a telemedicine company that consists of 24/7 on-demand accessible healthcare providers. These healthcare providers are licensed and board-certified therapists. It offers virtual services in primary care, urgent care, dermatology, and mental healthcare solutions. The aim is to offer hassle-free and fast healthcare solutions with no hidden charges.

8. Amwell

Source: Amwell

• Headquarter: Boston, USA.
• Founded: 2006
• Revenue: $61.9 million
• Consultation fee: $69/month with no insurance

Amwell is a telemedicine company operated by American Well Corporation. It connects users with healthcare providers over a secure video. Along with the virtual platform, Amwell also offers telemedicine hardware such as telemedicine carts and TytoCare devices.

Healthcare providers showcase their healthcare solutions online by subscribing to Amwell subscription plans. Amwell also markets diverse solutions such as telemedicine products, health plans, health systems, and nursing facilities.

9. Mantra Health Resources, Inc.

Source: Mental Health Resources

• Headquarters: New Mexico, USA.
• Founded: 1975
• Revenue: $35.6 million
• Consultation fee: $180/60 min

Mental Health Resources, a telemedicine company based in the US, offers secure tele-video counseling and HIPAA-compliant healthcare solutions. It consists of certified healthcare professionals from different parts of the country. They provide health therapy services in a wide range of therapeutic conditions like mental health, substance abuse or substance dependence, and co-occurring issues.

Mental Health Resources also provides services like medication and psychiatry management, as well as intensive group and outpatient therapy solutions. The company serves users above 14 years of age and prioritizes privacy protection.

10. Perry Health

Source: Perry Health

• Headquarters: New York, USA.
• Founded: 2021
• Revenue: $5 million
• Consultation fee: $30/month

Perry Health offers home-based virtual diabetes solutions between visits to healthcare providers. The company removes the hurdles for seniors to access chronic care solutions. Healthcare providers create customized solutions for the users; they help in managing A1C blood sugar levels.

Perry Health utilizes propriety technology and creates a healthcare program; this program enables users to gain access to healthcare providers who track progress and get a nutritional diet and healthcare therapy. The user also gets a diabetes-checking device that sends results directly to the company’s care team.

11. MeMD

Source: MeMD

• Headquarters: Arizona, USA.
• Founded: 2010
• Revenue: $8.4 billion
• Consultation fee: starts from $82

MeMD, a telemedicine company, is revolutionizing the healthcare industry by providing on-demand, convenient, affordable, and secure virtual solutions. It combines the best telemedicine solutions with business model innovations to offer easy and convenient access at affordable costs.

The company consists of certified healthcare providers that deliver required solutions through virtual platforms.

12. RO

Source: ro

• Headquarters: New York, USA.
• Founded: 2017
• Revenue: $204.2 million
• Consultation fee: $15

Ro is a company that provides both telemedicine solutions and online pharmacy products. It offers services for both men’s and women’s health conditions, along with anti-smoking solutions.

It aims to serve users by connecting them with concerned healthcare providers and helping them achieve their health goals with easy and effective solutions. Ro’s platform aids users in reaching their health goals via virtual diagnosis, medicine delivery, and tracking ongoing care.

Conclusion:

Telemedicine companies are the best option for healthcare solutions in the industry. It can be accessed at the comfort and convenience of the healthcare users. The above list of Top 12 Telemedicine companies in the healthcare industry consists of all the in-demand and best healthcare providers and therapist in the country. These companies have given healthcare users easy access to health solutions and information. They can also be an affordable alternative for people without health insurance.

The above list is not restricted for only consultation, you can also market your revolutionary products and services to suitable therapist and enhance the capabilities of the healthcare industry.

By offering convenient online appointment scheduling and reminders, scheduling software caters to the preferences of modern patients who value convenience and accessibility. This improves patient satisfaction and fosters loyalty to healthcare providers.

3. Optimized Resource Allocation

With real-time visibility into appointment schedules and resource availability, healthcare facilities can better allocate staff, rooms, and equipment, minimizing wait times and maximizing utilization. This leads to a more streamlined and cost-effective operation.

4. Increased Revenue

By reducing no-shows through automated reminders and optimizing appointment scheduling, healthcare providers can maximize their patient throughput and revenue potential. Additionally, features such as billing integration ensure timely and accurate payment collection.

5. Data-Driven Decision Making

Scheduling software generates valuable data insights into patient flow, staff productivity, and resource utilization. By analyzing this data, healthcare administrators can identify bottlenecks, anticipate demand, and make informed decisions to improve overall efficiency and performance.

For the correct functioning of software in the field of healthcare, the correct integration of medical data is necessary. Correct medical records are a merit of medical coders, who translate details from a patient’s medical documents, such as physician’s notes, lab reports, procedures, and diagnoses into universal medical codes. If you’re looking for career openings in healthcare, check medical coder internship opportunities for a bright career start.

Cons

1. Initial Implementation Challenges

Integrating scheduling software into existing healthcare systems can be complex and time-consuming. Staff may require training to effectively use the software, and there may be compatibility issues with other IT systems.

2. Dependency on Technology

Relying heavily on scheduling software can pose risks in the event of technical glitches, such as system outages or data breaches. Healthcare providers must have contingency plans in place to ensure continuity of care and minimize disruptions.

3. Loss of Personal Connection

While automation improves efficiency, it may also diminish the personal connection between healthcare providers and patients. Some patients may prefer the human touch when scheduling appointments or discussing their healthcare needs.

4. Cost Considerations

While scheduling software can yield long-term cost savings through improved efficiency, the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs can be significant for smaller healthcare facilities. It’s essential to carefully weigh the benefits against the expenses.

5. Privacy and Security Concerns

Storing sensitive patient information in digital form raises concerns about data privacy and security. Healthcare providers must adhere to strict regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), to safeguard patient confidentiality and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Scheduling software offers numerous benefits for optimizing healthcare industry processes, from improved efficiency and patient experience to data-driven decision-making. However, it’s essential to approach its implementation thoughtfully, considering the potential challenges and drawbacks. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, healthcare providers can harness the power of scheduling software to deliver high-quality care while maximizing operational efficiency.

In the past, medical diagnostic and surgical procedures were dreaded because of the unbearable discomfort associated with these clinical processes. Fortunately, thanks to advancements in the medical field, physicians have several ways to guarantee their patient’s comfort during these procedures. One of the common pain control methods physicians use is sedation. Also known as monitored anesthesia care, sedation falls under three main levels: minimal, moderate (conscious), and deep sedation.

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Deep sedation is controlled or monitored unconsciousness or depressed consciousness in which the patient isn’t easily aroused. Patients in deep sedation may experience complete or partial loss of reflexes and an inability to maintain a patent airway independently.

Deep sedation has been successfully effective in 97.8% of patients during endoscopy, dental, and surgery procedures. However, this does not mean that it does not have inherent risks or adverse effects, as evidenced by the remaining 2.2%. Let’s dive in and understand the potential downsides.

Deep Sedation: Adverse Effects

Deep sedation is generally safe, even for patients with certain health concerns or comorbidities. However, like other medical techniques, it can have adverse effects, which may include respiratory complications, delayed emergence, and postprocedural disorientation.

Image source

Potential Respiratory Complications

Respiratory complications are primarily tied to the sedative drugs used, which have been known to suppress the central nervous system depending on the dosage. The greater the dosage of sedatives, the greater the degree of respiratory complications.

Some of the well-documented respiratory complications arising from the use of deep sedation include oxygen desaturation, hypoventilation, reduced respiratory rate, and respiratory depression or arrest. The latter occurs when airway patency is compromised.

Respiratory depression, which increases when a combination or large dose of sedative drugs is used, presents as a decreasing rate and depth of ventilation. This complication arises due to the depression of respiratory control centers, which usually trigger breathing when they sense increased levels of CO² in the blood. All known sedatives have the potential to depress these respiratory control centers, but this is a manageable problem with proper monitoring and the right dosages.

Delayed Emergence From Sedation or Prolonged Recovery

When we talk about procedures requiring deep sedation, another term that crawls up often is emergence. This refers to the gradual gaining of consciousness once the administration of anesthesia has stopped. For most patients, this transition is smooth and flawless. For others, emergence may be delayed, prolonging the recovery process. When this happens, patients may take a long time to regain their cognitive functions, increasing the risk of cognitive impairment.

Patients need to have a steady emergence to be transported out of the OR and into the PACU. Normally, patients should be fully conscious and 100% cognitively capable within ~60 minutes of their last dose of sedatives. However, this duration may vary depending on the dosage and type of medical procedure.

Post-procedural Disorientation or Delirium

Patients who take too long to emerge from deep sedation may experience cognitive dysfunction, abnormal sleep patterns (sleep deprivation), and eventually delirium. Delirium is described as an acute alteration in a person’s cognitive functions. It is characterized by, among other things, thought disorganization and erratic consciousness.

Patients coming out of the OR where anesthesia was administered do require restorative sleep for normal and quick recovery. However, as pointed out, deep sedation may have the undesirable impact of causing abnormal sleep patterns which may deny patients the much-needed restorative sleep.

As common as it may be among patients in the ICU, sleep deprivation is a known risk factor for delirium and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Both of these have been linked to ICU overstay as well as ICU mortality rates. Older patients are at more risk of suffering from delirium, as well as those with a history of drug abuse.

Potential Risks Associated with Deep Sedation

Many complications may occur in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). According to the statistics, the three most prevalent complications in the PACU are airway events, hemodynamic instability, and postoperative nausea and vomiting.

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Risk of Overdose

Deep sedation is a delicate and precise technique that requires physicians to be highly experienced and follow the sedation guidelines and dosage strictly. This is why a deep sedation course becomes mandatory for any medical professional specializing in anesthesia administration.

Risk of Hemodynamic Instability

Another risk that physicians should aim to avoid when administering deep sedation is hemodynamic instability. Incidences of hemodynamic instability, especially in post-anesthesia care units, are quite common due to the erratic heartbeat, blood pressure, and cardiac output caused by deep sedation.

Independently, this risk factor has been attributed to long-term patient morbidity as well as prolonged post-care hospital stay. If left untreated, hemodynamic instability can lead to myocardial ischemia, cerebrovascular accident, hemorrhage, and even heart failure.

Risk of Cardiovascular Depression

Cardiovascular depression is another major risk associated with deep sedation. In dental procedures, it may be characterized by fainting or vasovagal syncope — a cardiovascular complication attributed to inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain.

In other procedures involving deep sedation, the risk of cardiovascular complications is a cause of abnormalities in heart rate and blood pressure. These can lead to hypotension and bradycardia.

Hypotension as a risk of deep sedation is usually a result of depressed sympathetic outflow. It becomes a serious concern because the resultant low diastolic blood flow decreases the rate of coronary blood flow. If left unmanaged, hypotension can escalate into reflex tachycardia, which results in an increased demand for myocardial oxygen.

Complications in Patients with Special Healthcare Needs

Patients with special needs provide a challenge to physicians administering deep sedation. This, therefore, requires specialized training and certification to effectively administer sedation medication to patients with special needs — those who are elderly, expectant, or have comorbidities.

Elderly persons are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular, respiratory, delayed emergence, and post-procedural delirium complications more than any other patient group.

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Pregnant women are at risk of low birth weight, as reported in several studies. Patients with comorbidities such as allergic reactions to anesthesia, diabetes, or heart disease are also at a high risk of developing most of the complications associated with deep sedation.

Pregnant women are recommended to wait until the second trimester before they undergo any sedation. If the procedure cannot wait, then the decision to proceed with sedation should be made by a multidisciplinary team of anaesthesiologists, obstetricians, surgeons, and perinatologists.

Conclusion

When administering deep sedation, physicians should educate patients about the potential adverse effects such as respiratory complications, delayed emergence, and post-procedural delirium. What’s more, measures ought to be well laid out and put in place to prevent, counter, or mitigate inherent risks, such as overdose, hemodynamic instability, and cardiovascular depression, among other risks associated with deep sedation that could present dangers to patients with special needs.

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