We live in the most exciting age of technology known to mankind. New innovations are continually being made that are changing the way we look at the healthcare industry. We are truly mastering the art of working smarter instead of harder. In the process, thousands of people are living longer, healthier lives. There are more than a few ways in which technology is furthering remedy research for common ailments.
1. Electronic Health Records
If you’ve been to the doctor or hospital lately, chances are you’ve been approached regarding the ability to access your health records electronically. This capability makes a big difference in the ability to accurately and efficiently treat patients. In the past, information systems were not consistent in their ability to share and transfer patient records. With the electronic option, records are immediately available in pristine condition.
2. New and Improved Treatments
Not all that long ago, there was no hope for a patient with AIDS, and hepatitis C had no cure. Today, things have changed, and there are new and exciting treatments being introduced almost every day. Just a few you may not be aware of include
- New treatment for shingles,
- Vaccination for human papilloma virus,
- Artificial pancreas for diabetics,
- Highly targeted and precise breast cancer treatments, and
- New and improved innovations for the treatment of sleep apnea.
3. 3D Medical Printing
It’s really hard to wrap your head around the idea of printing anything without the use of ink and paper. Using melted plastic to 3D print inanimate objects is becoming more and more commonplace. The idea of using biological material to create actual body parts can seem like science fiction, but it’s happening, and the possibilities are quite exciting!
Using living cell structure, bio-ink can be used to create highly-specific and advanced medical devices. Aside from use in growing new organs, this technology can also be used in the customization of skin for skin grafts and prosthetic limbs to meet the unique needs and circumstances of the patients who need them.
Gene Editing
There is still much debate over this one, but technology exists that allows for scientists to edit the genes of embryos. This can allow parents to create the best possible health for their children. Aside from this, it would also allow for huge strides in these areas:
- Retinal degenerative disease research,
- Treatment for various inherited diseases, and
- Potential for cures in viral infections like AIDS and various cancers.
Using gene editing, it could even become possible to eradicate malaria in subtropical areas devastated by the disease. This would be achieved by sterilizing mosquitoes and inserting a gene that would eliminate the ability of the mosquito to transmit the virus.
More Exciting Remedy Research to Come!
What we’ve touched on only covers innovations that are currently available. Considering that, according to Moore’s Law, technology doubles every two months, it’s exciting to speculate what may come in the future. As soon as the year 2050,
- Implanted and wearable technology will be quite normal–the technology found in Fitbit could be included in your clothing;
- Test results will be accurately and thoroughly analyzed using artificial intelligence;
- Teleconsultations will be preferred over doctor visits when possible, saving time and reducing the spread of disease;
- Computerized diagnosis will be accurate and reliable;
- Drug dosing will be automated;
- New, healthy organs will be able to be 3D printed; and
- Drone delivery of critical medications to isolated areas will be commonplace.
It’s evident we’ve only begun to scratch the surface of the possibilities. Whether or not you’re on board, the medical technology train has left the station, and there are more ways than ever it can improve your life.
