Just a few decades ago, for a patient to gain insight into their current health prognosis, they would have to set up an appointment with their provider. They would then get lab tests, wait for the doctor to read them, and then communicate the results to the patient. Long, drawn-out processes limit immediate care opportunities.
For those who manage chronic diseases and may be living at home or in a nursing facility, the use of wearable health tech can drastically improve patient-doctor care. It may even help to save a person’s life over time. A study from the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, found that the use of wearables within a healthcare setting and at home for chronic disease management improved odds.
Wearable devices, such as a glucose meter device or a defibrillator and pacemaker, can provide valuable and real-time information to a healthcare provider so that decisions can be made to protect the patient. These devices typically provide a very specific type of service, such as capturing the blood sugar of a patient. They link to Wi-Fi and transmit data directly to a healthcare provider, and that provider can take action if needed to bring the patient in for care.
