How Technology Is Changing Patient Engagement

Todd Berner
3 min readSep 5, 2022

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Getting people to take part in their own health care is rarely easy. Some of the key behaviors that can help improve their health include regular visits and follow-up appointments, taking medications, and monitoring their blood sugar levels. The rise of digital medical devices and the increasing number of online tools are helping to transform the way healthcare is delivered . They are helping to bridge the gap between clinical recommendations and patient actions, making it easier than ever for patients to take initiative in their own health. Here are a few ways that technology is changing patient engagement.

Accessibility Leads To More Engagement

The use of new technology in clinical practice can help bridge the gaps between the expectations of patients and the healthcare services they receive. The innovations in wearable devices, smartphones, and tablets can help improve the interactions between patients and healthcare professionals. Mobile devices and tablets can be used to facilitate various healthcare discussions, and they can also help improve the responsiveness of healthcare professionals when interacting with patients. For instance, by mounting laptops and tablets on mobile desks, healthcare professionals can now provide an immediate response to patients regardless of where they are in a medical facility. Wearable devices are another tech that can help improve the engagement of patients by measuring various health parameters, such as blood pressure and steps. They can also provide immediate feedback on their condition.

Virtual Reality Can Improve Daily Life

Visual aids can help patients visualize the process of a therapy session, which can improve their understanding of the procedures and improve their health. Through virtual reality, patients can improve their daily lives by remembering their care plans and performing actions related to their condition. Some of the innovations that can be used in this area include programs that monitor the effectiveness of at-home exercise. One of the main advantages of VR technology is its ability to improve the knowledge of healthcare professionals. Through training programs, patients and doctors can work together to develop effective strategies to treat a medical condition.

Tech Provides Access To Emotional Support

The growing evidence supporting the emotional benefits of online communities has led to the development of new tools and resources that help patients improve their quality of life. These tools allow them to share their experiences and find answers to their questions. Being part of online communities can also help improve the quality of care for patients by allowing them to connect with their healthcare providers. Forums exist that allow physicians to gain valuable insight into their patient’s concerns and provide accurate and timely information. Through online communities, healthcare professionals can improve the quality of patient care by building stronger bonds with their patients. They can also help build trust between the two parties. For instance, physicians can connect with their patients through social media or text messaging.

Originally published at https://toddberner.com on September 5, 2022.

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Todd Berner

Todd Berner is a pharmaceutical expert with a focus on improving outcomes through patient advocacy, particularly when it comes to rare diseases.