WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY: SENSATION OF EMERGING MARKETS

What is wearable technology?

Just when we were on the verge of smartphone acquaintance, entered the wearable technology, a system of devices or objects that exchange data through the internet with a manufacturer, an operator or any other connected device without human intervention. The technology hails from both ubiquitous computing, and the history & development of wearable computers.

How does wearable technology help the healthcare sector?

With high processor speed and ceaseless internet connectivity, the potential of wearable technology seems to go beyond imagination, especially in the healthcare sector. Doctors now have the advantage of possessing X-Rays through these devices without the need to leave the operating room or log on to another system from anywhere. This aids the doctors in retaining 100% attention on patients all the time.

Wearables are becoming highly useful for patients while benefitting hospitals through cost savings. BioPatch, for instance, is an FDA-approved mini device which can be stuck on a patient’s chest to monitor vitals. The device alerts nurses via smartphones, giving them the ability to be more efficient in prioritizing patients. This is beneficial to the patient as it prevents the stress of returning to the hospital while minimizing hospital visits.

Challenges of wearable technology with respect to healthcare sector

While the technology is on the growth path, it faces a few challenges, such as,

• Design constraints

The processors used in smart wearable gadgets are designed for smartphones, hence bulkier than a normal watch. Similarly, many products may not reflect the fashion preferences of the user.

• Lack of data security

Wearable devices use GPS navigation systems to receive location-based information, which is in turn stored in the database. This information can then be retrieved and used.   

• Stringent rules in data regulation, privacy & security

Businesses have to grapple strict laws and high-security procedures in order to operate with wearable technology

• High initial cost

Although the Google Glass is priced higher, which makes it difficult for mass adoption, measures are being taken to reduce the pricing while increasing the production.

Future of wearable technology

Biosensor, introduced in 2016, measured vital patient activities. This helped patients in early detection and intervention to improve patient outcomes. Project HoneyBee, incorporated by Arizona State University, caters to research on ways to reduce health care costs, validate Biosensors and increase patient outcomes.  

Despite the steep rise since 2017, wearable technology still has room for wider growth. While companies and hospitals continue their research and new product development, the healthcare sector is actually blessed with wearable technology.