Our healthcare system is in a state of crisis. This is true not just in the United States, but also around the world – in countries struggling to care for aging populations; in regions where doctors and clinics are few and far between.
There is no single solution to this crisis. But a convergence is taking place between medicine and wireless technology, making it possible to change healthcare delivery as we know it – to help individuals lead healthy, independent lives; to help hospitals and healthcare systems raise the bar on quality and become more cost-efficient.
Wireless access, the Internet, the growth of social networking – all increase our sense of connectivity, convenience and empowerment. These tools collapse time and space. And they open up a brand new frontier: Wireless Health.
While many advances have been made over the last few years, the field of wireless health is in its infancy. Its lexicon includes telemedicine, telehealth, e-health, mHealth, and mobile health. Its players range from small start-up ventures, to Fortune 500 companies, to global health organizations, to leading universities and major foundations.
Wireless health encompasses a broad range of solutions that enable physicians, end-users and caregivers to cost-effectively prevent, diagnose and monitor health conditions; manage treatment; and enable timely communication and intervention.
Devices and products include 'end-to-end' systems such as wearable sensors that transmit personal health and activity data to physicians, caregivers, and fitness coaches. Other breakthroughs include ingestible pills with tiny sensors that let your doctor determine if you are receiving the proper dosage of medication.
These are just a few of the many innovations that will allow levels of health care never seen before. The West Wireless Health Institute recognizes the enormous potential of this emerging field and the need to nurture and accelerate it.
