mHealth Growth Tops List Of 2014 Healthcare Predictions
By Katie Wike, contributing writer
Frost & Sullivan has revealed three predictions for the growth of healthcare; mHealth, cloud computing and regulatory environments
A global survey of healthcare executives conducted by Frost & Sullivan has revealed just over half – 51 percent – feel mHealth will be the top industry trend in 2014. MobiHealth News reports cloud computing came in second at 45 percent and regulatory environments third (44 percent).
Take Health IT Outcomes's IT Initiatives Trend survey.
"Frost & Sullivan's research team has used the findings to select and prioritize the subjects that are deemed to be poised for the greatest growth," explains Frost & Sullivan Partner Dorman Followwill in a press release. "The insight has also been essential in unveiling the business outlook for Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Clinical Diagnostics and Medical Devices, as well as to provide a global perspective on the industry's geographical hot spots.”
The Frost & Sullivan release further notes, “mHealth expansion has been fuelled by the unprecedented spread of mobile technologies, as well as advancements in their innovative application to address health priorities. It is largely supported by mobile devices, such as mobile phones, patient monitoring devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other wireless devices. The penetration prospects of mHealth technologies are significant in the following areas: wireless vital signs monitoring, location-aware telemonitoring systems, and Bluetooth wireless technology-enabled health trackers. It is an exciting area of opportunity for healthcare growth and will provide innovative solutions for stakeholders, both providers and patients alike, across the spectrum.”
With respect to cloud computing, Frost & Sullivan writes, “The advantages that cloud computing provides can change the dynamics of the healthcare informatics industry over time. The need for efficient sharing of information across locations in a synchronized manner will be a key driver for cloud computing in healthcare.” Using the cloud improves quality of care; providers are able to share information across miles and prevent data loss through off-site information storage.”
When it comes to regulatory environments, “Recent healthcare reforms and policy initiatives across many countries have emphasized the importance of quality of care more than quantity. In the absence of a sufficient proof of clinical benefit, reimbursements may pose a major hurdle,” notes Frost & Sullivan.
See the report HERE
Want to publish your opinion?