Introduction to IoT in Healthcare: Insights, Use Cases, Challenges and Benefits
The Internet of Things will be one of the key technologies supporting the digital transformation of healthcare. Dive into IoT for healthcare, explore IoMT devices, and meet companies already taking crucial steps in implementing IoT in the daily care of patients.
Contents
Internet of Things in healthcare: the definition and example
IoT in the healthcare market overview
Top challenges in developing IoT solutions in healthcare
Use cases & examples of IoT in healthcare
Are you planning to develop IoT for healthcare?
Internet of Things in healthcare: the definition and example
The Internet of Things (IoT) in healthcare refers to the network of medical devices and applications that communicate and exchange data due to an Internet and bluetooth connection.
For example, smart healthcare devices such as thermometers, spirometers and pulse oximeters might create a healthcare IoT network that measures patients' vital signs and processes them in a special app. Now, the app could send data to a designated doctor who can immediately verify the state of a patient.
IoT in the healthcare market overview
According to IoT in Healthcare Market, the global IoT in Healthcare market size is projected to grow from USD 127.7 billion in 2023 to USD 289.2 billion by 2028.
Top challenges in developing IoT solutions in healthcare
Data security and privacy
Before you craft your IoT network, you need to implement security protocols and ensure secure data storage & sharing. Using a cloud provider for data storage can speed up your process of adhering to HIPAA or GDPR.
Integration of devices’ SDKs
Some software teams face the challenge of integrating various healthcare devices with distinct Software Development Kits (SDKs) into a cohesive system. As a system owner, you need to be aware that designing a unified system might take more time than you initially assumed.
Poor internet coverage
Medical systems should not be solely dependent on an internet connection, particularly when developing IoT solutions for remote patient monitoring. Interruptions in the storage and sharing of data can have serious implications for patient health.
A viable solution is an offline mode, allowing data to be stored locally and synchronized automatically once the connection is reestablished. Read our guide to offline-first applications.
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Use cases & examples of IoT in healthcare
Telemedicine & Remote Patient Monitoring
IoT enables continuous patient monitoring through wearable devices and other health sensors. This can significantly improve patient care by providing real-time data on vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels. Remote monitoring is particularly valuable for managing chronic conditions and for elderly care, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.
Companies that do already do it: Oracle Health, Meditech
Electronic Health Records
IoT enhances EHR systems by providing richer, real-time data that improves the quality of care, operational efficiency, and patient outcomes in healthcare settings. EHR systems can use data collected from IoT devices to perform predictive analytics, identifying potential health issues before they become serious.
Companies already implementing it: MedKitDoc, Camascope,
Wearable Health Monitors
Devices like fitness bands and other wearable health trackers allow continuous monitoring of patients' vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. These devices can alert patients and doctors to potential health issues before they require acute care.
Companies already implementing it: Fitbit, Garmin
Smart Hospitals
IoT devices are used in hospitals to enhance patient care and optimize operations. For example, smart beds can detect when they're occupied and when a patient is attempting to get up. IoT can also track the location of medical equipment, like wheelchairs or defibrillators, improving asset utilization and reducing costs.
Companies already implementing it: GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers
Personalized Medicine
IoT can analyze data from various sources to tailor medical treatment to individual patients. This can involve adjusting medication based on how a patient's body reacts, which can be monitored through smart devices.
Companies already implementing it: IBM Watson Health, 23andMe
Ingestible Sensors
These tiny electronic devices are swallowed by patients and can collect data from within the body to diagnose and monitor digestive tract issues, medication adherence, and more.
Companies already implementing it: Proteus Digital Health, CapsoVision
Fall Detection
For elderly patients, sensors can detect changes in posture or abrupt movements that indicate a fall, automatically alerting healthcare providers and family members.
Companies already implementing it: Apple, Philips Lifeline
Connected Inhalers
For patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), connected inhalers can track usage, monitor the patient's condition, and determine if the patient is using their inhaler correctly.
Companies already implementing it: Propeller Health, Teva Pharmaceuticals
Smart Home Care
Smart home technologies can help patients with disabilities or the elderly live independently. This includes voice-activated devices, motion sensors, and other monitoring technologies that help ensure safety and provide alerts to caregivers when needed.
Companies already implementing it: Google Nest, Alexa
Supply Chain Management
In healthcare facilities, IoT can be used for tracking inventory levels of medical supplies and automatically reordering when stock is low. This helps in ensuring that essential items are always available and can also help in tracking the usage rates of various supplies for better management.
Companies already implementing it: SAP, Oracle
Telehealth and Virtual Visits
Although not exclusively an IoT application, telehealth often integrates IoT devices for better patient outcomes during virtual visits. Data collected through patient monitors can be transmitted during a telehealth session, giving healthcare providers a better understanding of the patient’s current health status.
Companies already implementing it: Teladoc Health, Amwell
IoT devices - examples
IoT network in healthcare is also called The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). It refers to a connected infrastructure of medical devices, software applications, and health systems and services. Let’s assess IoMT potential in geriatric healthcare.
Source: nature.com
Devices and sensors such as cardiac monitors, fall-detection sensors, smart socks, digital mirrors, smart shoes, and assistive robots enable 24-hour care and remote patient monitoring. A physician or caregiver can monitor all the health data in real-time and respond with tailored treatment.
Discover more health smart devices that are transforming healthcare.
Are you planning to develop IoT for healthcare?
As an IoT development company, we have helped our clients leverage Internet of Things technology. If you want to discuss your solution, book a free consultation with our IoT experts.
Blog cover: DALL·E
