In light of the technological advancements taking place around the world in all fields, the healthcare sector has been one of the areas that has developed and been influenced by technology. The world has witnessed a revolution in the way healthcare services are delivered, as well as in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
In the past, healthcare relied on in-person visits, physical examinations, and direct interaction between healthcare providers and patients. Today, however, it has become possible to monitor patients’ conditions and provide medical consultations via the internet, as well as to obtain an initial diagnosis through smart applications equipped with advanced algorithms that use artificial intelligence (AI).
AI analyzes large amounts of data to provide accurate diagnoses and treatment recommendations. It is also used to predict disease outbreaks, analyze medical images, and develop new drugs by simulating chemical interactions.
There are several examples of advanced digital technologies used in healthcare, such as smartwatches, heart rate monitors, and sleep sensors. These tools have become essential for continuously monitoring health conditions, as they send real-time data to doctors, allowing them to make early medical decisions to prevent complications.
These technologies have helped reduce mortality rates, as well as save time, costs, and effort for patients by minimizing the need for travel and in-person visits.
Modern digital technologies can bring about a fundamental change in the relationship between the patient and the healthcare provider, making the patient more active in managing their own health. With continued innovation, healthcare is expected to become more proactive, predictive, and intelligent, paving the way for a new era of smart healthcare.
Despite the numerous benefits of modern technologies, there are still many challenges, such as protecting the privacy of health data, ensuring the security of digital systems, and avoiding diagnostic errors. Moreover, adopting these technologies requires advanced infrastructure and intensive training for healthcare professionals to ensure the proper and safe use of modern digital tools.
Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq
Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being