A report by the College of Health Information Executives and KLAS Research suggests that wearable devices have the potential to empower patients in their own health care. However, for wider adoption, healthcare systems will need to improve security and connectivity. Healthcare organizations making the most progress in this area measure the effectiveness of patient engagement tools and make changes to deliver optimal results.
The report’s authors, including market intelligence firm Digital Health Analytics, suggest it will also give patients a greater role in managing their health. This has led HCOs to focus on combining personal technologies and healthcare, with a focus on data security and interoperability. The top uses of wireless technology among healthcare IT executives surveyed include telehealth for clinicians, wireless voice over Internet Protocol, video surveillance, mobile connectivity in all rooms, radio frequency identification/real-time location, Internet Protocol telemetry, roaming management/patient absconding/baby abduction and EHR-integrated patient wearables. These findings are based on a survey that represents the digital footprint of approximately 40% of US hospitals.