Wearable Medical Technology: Hype or Revolution?

In today’s world, our society is more connected than ever before. New technologies and innovations allow us to connect, contact, and interact with others in a variety of ways. We now make use of gadgets, apps, and other innovations every day. One area of innovation currently on the rise is wearable medical technology.

Products like smart watches, virtual reality headsets, smart accessories, and more are growing rapidly in popularity. With this rise in wearable technology, we see massive growth in different fields. One such field experiencing growth and change is the medical field. With many factors to consider, this article will examine whether wearable medical technology is just hype or the next revolution.

Peace of Mind

One of the primary benefits of wearable medical technology is the peace of mind it can offer. For anyone with loved ones, one of the hardest parts is knowing that you can’t protect them at all times. Whether it is an elderly relative who lives on their own, or a child going to school for the first time, most people can relate to the constant worry for their loved one’s health and safety. Thanks to wearable medical technologies, keeping an eye on your loved ones is easier than ever before.

Products like smartwatches and biosensors can monitor and assess the vitals of the wearer. They can also send out an alert to medical professionals, or loved ones, in case of emergency. For example, if your grandmother has a sudden drop in heart rate, wearable technology can alert someone to help.

Furthermore, some of these products even report that they can detect and alert help in the case of a fall. The ability to protect your loved ones and give yourself peace of mind cannot be overstated. It is one of the major reasons why wearable medical technology may be more than just hype.

Constant Feedback

Along with the ability for constant vigilance, wearable medical technology also provides constant feedback. As mentioned earlier, wearable medical technology can constantly monitor and track vitals. Things like heart rate, blood flow, and caloric output are all monitored by these new technologies. Tracking these things enables us to react quickly and plan proactively for a healthier lifestyle.

Many new wearable medical technologies can suggest fitness or nutritional programs based on your data. Products like the Garmin vivoactive 4 analyze your medical data and can suggest personalized workout plans for you. Whether you are an experienced gym enthusiast or are looking to work out for the first time, they can find a program that’s right for you. Because of the ability to be both proactive and reactive in your health, wearable medical technologies may be the next medical revolution.

Convenience is Key

Along with the previous benefits, wearable medical technology will make healthcare more convenient and accessible. In the past, it was necessary to seek professional help or go to a clinic in order to monitor your health. If you wanted to track your blood flow or heart rate you would need to reach out to a physician or clinic. If you were looking for a guided workout you would need to go to a gym.

While these services are still relevant today, for many people they require too much time or resources. Now, thanks to wearable medical technologies all of these can be accessed from the ease of your home. Your blood flow and heart rate are constantly monitored and analyzed by the technology. And workout plans can be found in the comfort of your living room.

Furthermore, the surge of these technologies means that more people have access to these services. While not necessarily cheap, wearable medical technologies are significantly more affordable than on-site medical care.

Without insurance, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can quickly become an insurmountable expense for some. With more affordable pricing, these technologies can enable many more people to access resources for their health. By making medical care cheaper and more convenient, wearable medical technologies offer an enormous advantage to users.

Potential Concerns

As with any new innovations, there are some concerns to address with wearable medical technologies. One of the primary concerns with these new smart technologies is data security. It is no secret that there is any number of parties who would like to access your personal data.  Unfortunately, the constant tracking done by wearable technologies provides more data for outside parties to access. As with any new technology, it is important that you as a consumer understand what kind of information you are putting out into the world.

Also, there are concerns as to the intentions of the companies that produce these wearable technologies. Recent privacy scandals with big companies like Facebook have created doubts. It is essential as a consumer to know that your information is valued and protected by the company that is holding it.

Despite these concerns, the benefits are clear from wearable medical technologies. Do your research on products, and don’t be afraid to consult with a medical professional for guidance on products. It appears likely that wearable medical technologies will be the next revolution in the future of your health.

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