IoT in healthcare involves using internet-connected devices to collect and share data, enhancing patient care and making healthcare systems more efficient. This interconnectivity of systems is transforming how medical providers monitor, diagnose, and treat patients. Hospitals and clinics increasingly rely on these technologies to improve efficiency, outcomes, and deliver personalized care in modern medicine.
With the help of our experts, we’ll explore the benefits of IoT in healthcare, showcase real-world applications, and highlight the current state of adoption within the industry.
Table of Contents
- How Is IoT Revolutionizing Healthcare?
- 3 Common IoT Healthcare Device Examples
- 5 Popular Internet of Things in Healthcare Examples
- IoT in Healthcare Trends: Today’s State of IoT Healthcare Solutions
- Working With an IoT Company in the Healthcare Industry
- IoT in Healthcare: Final Thoughts
- IoT in Healthcare FAQs
How Is IoT Revolutionizing Healthcare?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming healthcare by enabling seamless data exchange between devices, delivering real-time insights into patient health, and providing innovative ways to monitor, diagnose, and treat patients.
These advancements are reshaping patient care, hospital operations, and chronic condition management in several ways, including:
1. Remote Patient Monitoring
IoT-powered tools allow doctors to track vital signs such as blood pressure and glucose levels remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. Patients also use smartphone apps to track their health, manage conditions, and stay connected with doctors anytime, anywhere.
Continuous monitoring of vital signs can help detect early warning signs of complications. This has become essential for managing chronic conditions and ensuring timely interventions during critical situations. For instance, a smartwatch that monitors your heart rate and alerts you and your doctor if something’s off.
2. Enhanced Hospital Operations
Hospitals are embracing IoT technologies to streamline operations and enhance patient care.
- Smart devices: These tools automate essential tasks like inventory tracking and patient check-ins, reducing administrative burdens and freeing up resources for critical needs. For example, smart medication dispensers remind patients to take their pills and let doctors know if doses are missed.
- Integrated health records: Being able to integrate with electronic health records, IoT ensures clinicians have immediate access to accurate data that improves decision-making and minimizes the risk of errors.
- Smart equipment monitoring: Sensors keep track of hospital equipment, manage inventory, and ensure critical tools are always ready for use. Remote monitoring of devices like infusion pumps and ventilators reduces the risk of equipment failure and keeps patients safe.
3. Improved Treatment Success
IoT devices provide doctors with valuable data to identify health trends and patterns over time. This information enables healthcare professionals to provide personalized and proactive care and customize treatments to each patient’s unique needs.
Additionally, IoT data improves decision-making by providing real-time insights and a comprehensive view of a patient’s health history. This helps doctors predict potential health risks, adjust medication doses, and improve overall patient outcomes.
4. Empowering Patients
IoT-powered solutions are also empowering patients by providing greater control over their health. Wearable devices and mobile apps monitor vital signs such as heart rates and blood sugar levels, offering personalized insights and encouraging healthier habits while enabling early detection of potential issues.
These advancements not only improve individual outcomes but also drive a more connected and effective healthcare system.
3 Common IoT Healthcare Device Examples
IoT devices bridge the gap between healthcare providers and individuals, offering efficient solutions for various medical needs. Here are three common IoT healthcare devices in use today:
- Smart insulin pens: These devices help diabetic patients manage their conditions by tracking dosage and timing to ensure accurate treatment. These pens sync with mobile apps, allowing users to monitor their health and avoid complications.
- Connected inhalers: Designed for asthma and COPD patients, connected inhalers monitor usage patterns, send reminders, and collect data. This information helps doctors identify triggers and improve treatment plans.
- Remote cardiac monitors: These systems continuously track heart activity to detect abnormalities that require immediate attention. They allow patients with heart conditions to maintain independence while staying connected to their healthcare teams.
5 Popular Internet of Things in Healthcare Examples
A growing number of brands are investing in IoT in their healthcare systems. Many companies are making strides in using this technology to improve health outcomes and efficiency.
Below are five real-world examples of companies that are using IoT in healthcare to enhance their operations:
1. Abbott Laboratories
Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre system offers continuous glucose monitoring for diabetes patients. It sends glucose readings to a smartphone app, helping patients and doctors manage blood sugar levels effectively.
The system eliminates the need for routine finger pricks, which makes the process more comfortable and convenient for users. Plus, it tracks glucose trends over time, helping doctors create personalized treatment plans.
2. Proteus Digital Health
Proteus Digital Health has developed a smart pill with an ingestible sensor designed to assist both patients and doctors. When swallowed, the sensor activates in the stomach and communicates with a wearable patch on the skin. This patch records the time the pill was taken and continuously monitors your heart rate and activity.
The patch sends this information to a mobile app, allowing you and your doctor to see it in real time. The data also gets sent to the cloud for further analysis, helping you to stay on track with your medication while letting a physician monitor your health remotely.
3. Philips Healthcare
Philips uses IoT in devices such as patient monitors and imaging machines. Their HealthSuite platform collects and analyzes health data, helping doctors provide appropriate care.
The platform also supports remote monitoring, allowing healthcare providers to check on patients’ conditions even when they’re not in the hospital. This leads to quicker emergency responses and more efficient overall patient management.
4. Boston Scientific
Boston Scientific’s implantable cardiac devices use IoT to transmit health data. This continuous monitoring helps doctors manage heart conditions proactively and keep patients healthier.
The devices alert doctors to any irregularities as soon as they happen, while patients benefit from fewer in-person check-ups, as their health data is always available to their medical team.
5. Medtronic
Medtronic has introduced cardiac implantable electronic devices and insulin pump systems that leverage IoT. These tools give real-time data to healthcare providers so they can manage chronic conditions with accuracy.
The pumps adjust insulin delivery automatically based on glucose levels, which reduces the risk of hypoglycemia. For cardiac patients, implantable devices provide detailed heart activity data that help doctors catch issues as early as possible.
IoT in Healthcare Trends: Today’s State of IoT Healthcare Solutions
As of 2024, IoT solutions in healthcare are experiencing huge advancements and widespread adoption. The following are the key trends and developments to look out for:
- Personalized medicine
- Virtual reality (VR) and training
- Blockchain for data security
- AI in administrative tasks
1. Personalized Medicine
Personalized medicine uses AI and IoT to tailor treatments to individual needs. For instance, wearable devices monitoring heart rate, glucose levels, or sleep patterns provide insights. AI then combines this data with medical history to suggest personalized health services, medication adjustments, or lifestyle recommendations.
For instance, an AI system might recommend a specific exercise routine and medication for managing diabetes based on a patient’s unique profile.
2. Virtual Reality (VR) and Training
Virtual reality is transforming both medical training and patient care. Surgeons use VR to practice complex procedures in a safe and risk-free environment, boosting their skills and confidence.
Patients also benefit from VR therapy. For example, individuals with chronic pain can immerse themselves in calming virtual environments that help distract from pain and reduce discomfort.
3. Blockchain for Data Security
Blockchain technology is enhancing data security in healthcare by providing a secure and transparent way to store patient records. For instance, a patient’s medical history stored on a blockchain can’t be altered, ensuring data integrity and preventing unauthorized changes.
Additionally, blockchain can help verify the origin and authenticity of medications to prevent counterfeit drugs from reaching patients. This is achieved through a transparent record of the drug’s journey, using unique digital signatures, along the supply chain — from manufacturer to distributor to pharmacy. If any discrepancies are detected in the blockchain, the medication’s authenticity can be questioned.
4. AI in Administrative Tasks
The US healthcare industry is increasingly adopting AI to streamline administrative tasks. After rigorous testing, automated systems can now handle tasks like scheduling and billing that free up staff time.
For instance, AI chatbots can book appointments and send reminders to patients. Such capability allows healthcare providers to focus their time and efforts on patient care instead. AI can also improve patient communication by sending follow-up messages and tailored health tips.
Working With an IoT Company in the Healthcare Industry
Partnering with an IoT company in healthcare opens doors to transformative solutions tailored to modern medical challenges. These organizations provide expertise in integrating advanced technology into healthcare systems, helping facilities optimize operations and improve patient care.
Whether implementing remote monitoring devices or automating administrative workflows, these agencies offer insights that ensure seamless integration. This approach minimizes disruptions that allow medical staff to focus on delivering quality care.
Here are some additional tips to make the most of this collaboration:
- Define clear objectives: Outline goals and priorities to ensure the agency understands your organization’s needs.
- Evaluate their portfolio: Assess past projects to determine their expertise in healthcare technology. A strong portfolio demonstrates their ability to deliver solutions, whether it's remote patient monitoring or automated workflows.
- Establish open communication: Maintain regular check-ins to address issues and ensure alignment throughout the partnership.
IoT in Healthcare: Final Thoughts
IoT in healthcare is transforming the industry by making data management efficient and enhancing patient care and operations for facilities while reducing operational costs.
Whether you're a healthcare leader or a tech professional, embracing IoT’s potential can bring revolutionary changes in your organization that can streamline data collection and management for improved health outcomes.
IoT in Healthcare FAQs
1. How is IoT used in healthcare?
IoT is used in healthcare by connecting medical devices and systems to improve patient care. Think of a wearable monitor that sends your health data straight to your doctor. This way, physicians can identify issues early and tailor treatments just for you.
2. Is IoT in healthcare secure?
Yes, IoT in healthcare is secure, but only when strict security measures are in place. For example, data encryption and regular software updates can protect patient information from hackers. Using multi-factor authentication helps ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.
