Emerging Healthcare Trends Nursing Students Should Be Aware Of
As nursing students embark on their educational journey to become healthcare professionals, it is crucial for them to stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in the field. The healthcare industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, shifting demographics, and changing healthcare policies. By understanding and embracing these emerging trends, nursing students can better prepare themselves for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In this article, we will explore five key healthcare trends that nursing students should look out for, supported by data points.
Telehealth, the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, has witnessed a significant surge in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated its adoption, leading to a fundamental shift in healthcare delivery. According to the American Hospital Association, telehealth visits increased by a staggering 50% during the pandemic.
The global telemedicine market size was USD 41.63 billion in 2019 and is projected to grow from 79.79 billion in 2020 to USD 396.76 billion in 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 25.8% in the 2020-27 period.
The global impact of COVID-19 has been unprecedented and staggering, with telemedicine witnessing a positive demand shock across all regions amid the pandemic. The global impact of COVID-19 has been unprecedented and staggering, with telemedicine witnessing a positive demand shock across all regions amid the pandemic. Nursing students should familiarize themselves with telehealth platforms and remote patient monitoring technologies to deliver care beyond the traditional clinical setting.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML):
AI and ML are revolutionizing healthcare by enabling advanced data analysis, clinical decision support, and personalized care. Nursing students need to understand how AI-powered systems can assist in early disease detection, improve diagnostic accuracy, and streamline workflows. For instance, a study published in Nature Medicine demonstrated that an AI system could detect breast cancer from mammograms with an accuracy comparable to radiologists. Moreover, the global artificial intelligence in healthcare market size was valued at USD 15.4 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 37.5% from 2023 to 2030. Familiarity with AI and ML applications will be invaluable for nursing students as they navigate the future of healthcare.
3. Population Health Management:
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Population health management focuses on improving the health outcomes of specific populations by analyzing and addressing their unique needs. It involves proactive strategies to prevent diseases, manage chronic conditions, and promote wellness. Nursing students should be well-versed in population health principles, including health promotion, disease prevention, and care coordination. According to a report by Global Market Insights, the population health management market is projected to exceed $119 billion by 2027, driven by the growing focus on preventive care and value-based reimbursement models.
4. Travelling nurses
Travel nursing — temporary, short-term nurses used to cover staffing demands — saw a 35 per cent growth in 2020, with an additional 40 per cent growth expected. This was primarily due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and staffing shortages in healthcare facilities. This trend has attracted many nurses to pursue a career as travelling nurses, driven by several factors such as increased pay, flexibility, and the opportunity to explore different locations. However, it is important to note that most students who aspire to become travelling nurses typically begin their careers in traditional healthcare settings to gain valuable experience before transitioning to the travel nursing path.
The presence of travelling nurses has brought significant benefits to patients and healthcare facilities, particularly during times of staff shortages. These nurses provide essential care and support, ensuring that hospitals can continue to operate efficiently and effectively. By offering their services in various locations, travelling nurses contribute to bridging the gap in healthcare staffing and meeting the needs of patients across different regions.
5. Health Informatics and Data Analytics:
Health informatics and data analytics play a pivotal role in transforming healthcare delivery, enabling evidence-based practice, and improving patient outcomes. Nursing students need to acquire skills in health information technology, data management, and data analysis to leverage the vast amount of health data available. The global healthcare analytics market is projected to reach USD 85.9 billion by 2027 from USD 27.4 billion in 2022, at a CAGR of 25.7%. By harnessing the power of data, nursing professionals can identify trends, predict health outcomes, and enhance the quality and safety of care.
By embracing these trends, nursing students can adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape and contribute effectively to improving patient care and outcomes. The future of healthcare is rapidly evolving, and nursing students have a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of these transformative changes.