5 Healthcare Technology Trends in 2024
As we approach the conclusion of 2023, the trajectory of healthcare revolutionization through technology becomes increasingly evident. The surge in transformative healthcare technologies, fueled by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, is poised to continue reshaping the industry in 2024. As hospitals look to the future, there is a growing inclination toward the digitization of their infrastructure. Hospital executives recognize the profound impact of technology in today’s post-pandemic environment, and there is a wide variety of healthcare technology products reshaping the industry. Here are 5 key technology trends set to impact the healthcare industry in the coming year.
1. Increased Role of Data Security
In 2024, the imperative for robust data security and secure networks within hospitals and healthcare facilities is more pronounced than ever. The escalating reliance on digital technologies and the integration of sophisticated healthcare systems necessitate a proactive approach to safeguarding sensitive patient information. As the healthcare industry continues to embrace transformative technologies, including the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and advanced data analytics, the vulnerability to cyber threats becomes a critical concern. The rising trend in 2024 is centered around the implementation of secure networks. As a leading technology provider in the healthcare industry, MDM Healthcare provides healthcare organizations with a comprehensive array of technological solutions to modernize their facilities.
MDM Healthcare’s LTE Network Solution elevates healthcare facilities’ connectivity and security to a whole new level.
Specifically designed to address the distinctive needs of the healthcare industry, our solution provides hospitals with a comprehensive set of features and advantages, including seamless mobility, efficient deployment, enhanced security, and privacy.
Additionally, MDM Healthcare’s LTE Network is a secure network solution, aligning seamlessly with the stringent standards set by HIPAA. Our LTE Network ensures compliance with privacy regulations, guaranteeing the security of sensitive healthcare information. Fortified by SIM security measures, it also provides an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.
2. Revolutionizing Healthcare Content Delivery with IPTV
Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has transformed the way content is delivered in healthcare settings, offering a superior experience compared to traditional cable systems or satellite dishes. Delivered through secure networks, IPTV enhances interactivity and personalization while simplifying maintenance. Patients benefit from both on-demand and live programming, contributing to an elevated healthcare experience.
Jason Morrill, Technical Solutions Engineer at MDM Healthcare, explains that IPTV is a comprehensive term enveloping several critical concepts, and is often referred to by a variety of interchangeable terms including local IP distribution, IPTV, or simply Netflix.
Morrill differentiates between consumer IPTV and its commercial counterpart, underscoring the customized preloading of applications like Netflix and Amazon Prime in consumer TVs designed for residential use. Within a healthcare environment, specific considerations and licensing agreements mandate a specialized approach to app preloading. Hence, the recommendation is to explore the option of local IP distribution, a setup that can be expertly facilitated by a commercial integrator like MDM Healthcare.
Healthcare facilities newly slated for construction or contracted for renovation will see a myriad of benefits when they opt for local IP distribution. Morrill explains why this is optimal timing for implementing IPTV systems, noting the importance of installing category 6 (CAT6) cabling during such projects, which is the industry standard for network connectivity. Morrill said that the transition to IPTV in new builds is becoming common, but some clients struggle to grasp the complexities involved in setting up the necessary active IP equipment for content delivery.
Morrill highlights the interactive features of IPTV, allowing two-way communication for on-demand capabilities like pausing, rewinding, and fast-forwarding. Morrill emphasizes that local IP distribution lays the groundwork for future integrations and offers flexibility for owners and operators.
There are several factors that influence a hospital’s decision to choose local IP distribution or RF distribution. For customized networking solutions designed for the unique requirements of healthcare facilities, contact MDM Healthcare’s regional representatives, providing expertise, and answering questions about hospital TV systems. Whether you have specific healthcare technology needs or require comprehensive solutions, MDM Healthcare is dedicated to empowering your healthcare facility.
3. IoMT
IoMT (Internet of Medical Things), also referred to as connected health systems, has increasingly impacted the healthcare industry in recent years and will continue to do so in 2024. IoMT encompasses a network of medical devices, hardware infrastructure, and software applications that are interconnected through the internet, facilitating the integration of healthcare information technology. Experts have stated that not only did IoMT technology significantly alleviate the burden of the COVID-19 pandemic for healthcare workers, but also inspired scientists to develop an innovative ‘Smart’ healthcare system, prioritizing early diagnosis, prevention of transmission, education, treatment, and supporting adaptation to the new normal.
Healthcare executives grasp the pivotal role of an optimized network solution in underpinning the array of connected digital health technologies integral to modern hospitals.
In the contemporary healthcare landscape, the industry heavily depends on internet-connected devices and software, wherein a private LTE network emerges as a vital component in fortifying these intricate digital ecosystems. As mentioned previously, our LTE and local IP distribution solutions have capabilities that play a crucial role in advancing healthcare operations. Additionally, MDM Healthcare offers healthcare facilities a premium selection of IoMT products including software and hardware.
Our cutting-edge, cloud-based patient experience platform Journey PX elevates patient engagement throughout the continuum of care. This scalable, cost-effective software will work for any size facility and help streamline care team operations. To explore Journey PX solutions, schedule a free demo today.
Digital signage is another IoMT product that is transforming the hospital landscape, which creates a hospital experience that is truly second to none. There are several ways hospitals are using Pro AV technology, including providing interactive experiences, enhanced wayfinding throughout hospital facilities, real-time information absorption, modern digital art, and more. This technology also drives hospital revenue and elevates the experience for hospital visitors, staff, and patients. The marketing possibilities are limitless with MDM Healthcare’s diverse digital signage displays. MDM Healthcare offers a wide range of digital signage solutions—and our expert team will be happy to assist you in making selections. Please contact us online or call (800) 359-6741 to discuss how we can help.
The state-of-the-art technology is also guaranteed to deliver exactly the right content at exactly the right time seamlessly and easily when paired with our digital signage content management platform, Autora DSM.
Autora DSM offers user-friendly digital signage content management. Users can streamline content creation, scheduling, and playback with world-class efficiency. For more information schedule a demo of Autora today.
4. Harnessing Technology to Confront Health Disparities and Address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
A recent article in npj Digital Medicine the growing recognition of technology, particularly internet access, as a “super determinant” of health, influencing both healthcare outcomes and traditional social determinants like education, employment, and healthcare access.
Empowering patients with essential health education is crucial for informed decision-making and proactive care. MDM Healthcare’s patient engagement platform, Journey PX, offers an intuitive and user-friendly experience. Its ease of use is comparable to operating a TV remote, making it accessible to a broad spectrum of users. It ensures health equity by displaying educational content on smart healthcare-grade TVs in hospital rooms, accessible to a broad spectrum of users.
Journey PX seamlessly integrates with the hospital’s electronic medical records (EMR), providing real-time and accurate patient data. The digital whiteboard, My Day, Today, displays essential health information in a language patients can understand, fostering understanding of their daily care plan and minimizing communication gaps, confusion, and frustration.
Another vital issue impacting the SDOH is access to medication. Recently Angela Brunemann, PharmD, Director of Business Development for a prominent pharmacy care services company, discussed the role of technology in the patient experience on our podcast PX Space. She discussed leveraging telehealth and telepharmacy to bridge communication gaps, particularly during hospital discharge. The ability to connect with the pharmacy team and access information is crucial, promoting patient education and fostering in-depth conversations.
Journey PX offers a customizable meds-to-beds program, integrating with EMR to engage patients at the bedside with prompts, medication education, and pharmacy information. This program ensures medication health literacy, with features like auto-assignment of education upon medication order, Meds to Beds participation prompts, and pharmacy notifications.
To learn more about creating a meds-to-beds program with Journey PX, contact us for a free demo.
5. Technology-Enabled Personalized and Preventative Medicine
In 2024, the ongoing trend of leveraging technology to bolster personalized and preventative healthcare strategies will persist. Technological advancements continue to be instrumental in customizing medical interventions based on individual characteristics (personalized medicine) and implementing proactive measures to prevent the onset or progression of diseases (preventative medicine). The integration of technology into healthcare not only augments the precision and efficacy of medical practices but also heralds a shift toward a consumer-centered healthcare model. This patient-centric approach promotes self-care, and the integration of technology ensures that patients are more engaged and empowered than ever before. Equipped with patient engagement technology, the patient is the captain of their care team. Patients can now use an array of services, apps, and other technology to get the information that they need.
Patient engagement technology, such as Journey PX, plays a crucial role in enhancing health literacy through personalized patient education. Baylor University Medical Center emphasizes the significance of patient education in improving health outcomes, particularly amid rising healthcare costs. Journey PX’s inpatient solution, My Stay, features a comprehensive video education library covering various medical conditions and medications. Integrated with the EMR, Journey PX auto-assigns personalized education based on individual patient needs, considering factors like risk scores, orders, diagnoses, or information requests. The platform prompts patients to engage with their daily care plan and educational content, and completion and understanding are auto-documented in the EMR. This supports compliance with standards set by The Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goals and CMS value-based care measures, contributing to positive outcomes and cost-effective care. Read more about the topic in our whitepaper here.
As we reflect on the technological landscape in healthcare as we near the close of 2023, the profound impact of transformative technologies, accelerated by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, becomes increasingly apparent. Looking ahead to 2024, the healthcare industry is witnessing a pervasive inclination toward the digitization of infrastructure, driven by the recognition of technology’s profound influence in the post-pandemic environment.
The healthcare industry is at the cusp of a technological revolution in 2024, with MDM Healthcare leading the way in providing innovative solutions that enhance security, content delivery, connectivity, health equity, and patient engagement. As we step into the future, these technology trends promise to reshape healthcare, creating a more patient-centric and technologically advanced landscape.
MDM Healthcare distinguishes itself as a one-stop shop, providing cutting-edge technology, expert consultation, customized installation services, and steadfast support tailored to your specific needs. With a track record of delivering innovative solutions for over three decades, MDM Healthcare leverages its substantial purchasing power to ensure competitive pricing, making state-of-the-art technology accessible even for organizations with budget constraints. Whether you’re embarking on a new technology venture or upgrading existing equipment, MDM Healthcare’s devoted team stands ready to assist, offering efficient shipping options and professional guidance throughout the entire process. Opting for MDM Healthcare means choosing a committed partner capable of seamlessly managing and executing your project, regardless of its size or complexity. For inquiries regarding any of the mentioned technologies, contact one of our dedicated healthcare technology experts online or call 888-805-6413.