What digital health products promote better living?

The technology revolution has had a dramatic effect on nearly all industries and not least areas like healthcare and wellness. Over recent years the advancement of technology has brought digital integrations into the health system that have changed how healthcare is accessed, delivered, and promoted.

In recent times, healthcare sectors have adopted the use of electronic health records (EHRs) or 'mHealth'(mobile health), which allowed the digitisation of patient health data. This makes it easier and quicker for healthcare providers to retrieve patient data for continuity of care. Telemedicine and online consultation have also been in higher demand, allowing patients to receive medical consultations or treatment suggestions remotely. This has provided an accessible and convenient solution for people who have a busy lifestyle or live in remote areas.

Until recently, health monitoring technology (used for medical treatment and surgery) has only been available to certain people, primarily due to the sheer cost of the equipment. But with more innovations, this technology has been made affordable and available to the wider community. Affordable electronic devices are designed to be used by the general public without the need for professional training.

New technology has allowed us to develop wearable devices for monitoring fitness and wellness. Devices can track physical activity and health metrics. Many smartphone apps and digital platforms have also emerged that help individuals take control and managemental health. Some of these tools use artificial intelligence and machine learning combined with algorithms to provide personalised recommendations and insights, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

New innovative treatments, like gene therapy and regenerative medicine, may revolutionise how diseases are diagnosed and treated. Using robotic tools and automation in surgeries has also improved the accuracy and precision of procedures. This has significantly impacted the wellness and healthcare industries, providing improved access to care services, better-targeted treatments, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

Digital health solutions are transforming how people manage their health and wellness with access to various digital tools that can help them lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Here are some of the latest innovations.

Health and fitness apps

Smartphone apps provide a convenient and accessible way to track physical activity, nutrition, health metrics and sleep patterns. They collect detailed health information that often includes features such as health history, mental health assessment, menstrual cycle calendar, blood test monitoring, medication reminder, calculators etc and help in goal setting. These apps can offer personalised recommendations that allow users to track progress to lead a healthy life. (Example- patient access, NHS app. Patient on the go etc)

Wearable devices

Fitness trackers and smartwatches help individuals track up-to-the-minute information about their physical activity or monitor things like heart rate, oxygen level, ECG, step count etc. This data can provide valuable insights into an individual's physical health condition, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their lifestyle, activity, and wellness.

(Example- Fitbit, apple watch etc)

Mental health apps

Mental health apps provide individuals with accessible and convenient tools to manage their mental well-being and may include features such as stress management techniques, mood tracking, and other therapy options such as meditation, counselling tools, or breathing exercises. They are especially useful for individuals with barriers to traditional office-based mental health services, such as cost, stigma, or availability. (Example- Headspace, Happify etc)

Digital health coaching

Digital health coaching combines technology with medical expertise to provide personalised support and guidance to those working towards health and fitness goals. It can provide an ideal solution for those who need strong motivation and personal accountability to achieve their wellness objectives. (Example- Quenza, Nudge Coach etc)

In conclusion

Digital tools offer a convenient and accessible solution that revolutionises traditional healthcare management methods. Digital health solutions are changing how people approach their health and wellness, offering an easy and frictionless way to take control of health, improve wellness and monitor physical fitness. By adopting digital solutions, individuals, communities, and health providers can benefit from the latest technological advancements to cultivate a healthy society.

‍