The Internet of Things (IoT) is a broad term referring to all pieces of technology that connect to the Internet and each other. A subset of the Internet of Things is the Internet of Healthcare Things (IoHT). This refers to all pieces of Internet-connected technology that apply to the healthcare industry.
The IoHT and development of new technologies in the healthcare field has made significant strides in improving patient care. It is not just about maintaining records and communicating with patients. If household appliances and business technology can be added to the IoT, then medical devices can as well.
A fully connected IoHT can enable practitioners to provide individually customized data-based treatments. If patient records are made readily available, the provider can view a comprehensive medical history cross-referenced with data-based treatment research successfully administered to similar patients. The more data available regarding current treatments, medications, and patient history, the better care the patient will receive.
The IoHT will not only benefit patients on a personal level, but it will streamline the healthcare process by allowing practitioners to communicate and instantly access patient information with the appropriate permissions. Let’s say, for instance, that a patient resides in Arizona. However, while vacationing in California, he has a medical emergency. With the advanced IoHT and fast access to patient records, the doctor providing emergency care can gain a clear picture of the treatment the patient requires. This eliminates guesswork and is especially helpful if the patient is unresponsive or unable to provide necessary information.
The database would also be useful for referring a patient to a specialist. There would be no waiting for faxed records, allowing the patient to receive treatment faster. IoHT would be especially beneficial within the hospital system where shift changes are frequent and transferring care between practitioners means updating a new medical team. Fast access to the IoHT leaves more time for the patients and less room for unnecessary mistakes.
Advancements in the IoHT have the potential to greatly simplify medical documentation procedures. Rather than spending time manually filling out paperwork, nurses, doctors, and other healthcare providers can enter patient information electronically and ensure instant access for all applicable providers. It can also be a significant asset to inventory management by electronically tracking supplies and utilizing automated ordering.
The IoHT can streamline required education and renewed certifications for doctors, nurses, emergency services workers, and clerical personnel. For instance, ACLS online renewal is available to practitioners and emergency services staff who may be required to provide cardiac interventions. For clerical personnel, a medical transcription certification can be obtained online and even allow staff to work remotely and provide accurate records on the IoHT.
The IoHT can provide patients with quick access to necessary healthcare both on an inpatient and outpatient basis. For instance, in some hospitals, on-duty nurses are equipped with wearable devices that alert them when a patient presses the call button. Similarly, doctors can track patient progress and receive up-to-date alerts on a smart device connected to patient monitors.
The IoHT could provide patients with instant access to their records and healthcare providers. They could ask questions, access care instructions, and even manage their prescriptions. Many pharmacies already send texts when patient prescriptions are ready. This idea can be expanded to create downloadable apps specific to healthcare centers, doctors, and specialists. The IoHT can be especially useful for disabled individuals living alone. Family and medical personnel could be instantly alerted in case of an emergency with proper monitoring and device connection.
The biggest roadblock to advancement in the Internet of Healthcare Things is patient privacy. HIPAA policies are strict, and for good reason. Patients deserve to have their medical information protected, and hackers pose a very real threat. There is also the issue of ensuring privacy across each device to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information while still providing the best possible care. Specialized encryption programs that are regularly assessed and updated are necessary to ensure the highest level of confidentiality.
While privacy concerns pose an issue not found in other subsets of IoT, it appears that the pros far outweigh the cons. Healthcare database access and the potential for saving time on paperwork and logistics will enable practitioners to provide focused care while information sharing allows patients to take full control of their health.
