Emergency care MedTech set to reshape ER experience

MedTech has vast applications that are transforming the way healthcare is administered. Emergency care is no exception. This particularly fast-paced environment has the opportunity to improve greatly, revolutionizing the way healthcare professionals respond to critical situations.

From faster response times to improved patient outcomes, the future of emergency care MedTech is set to reshape the emergency room (ER) experience. To better serve your clients, learn about the various ways the following applications will likely change ER practices in the coming years.

Digital triage: Artificial intelligence and machine learning
Emergency care is no stranger to digitalization, but artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are kicking things up a notch in the interest of patients. AI algorithms can analyze patient data and medical records to accurately assess the severity of a patient’s condition and prioritize their care accordingly. This technology has the potential to expedite the triage process, allowing healthcare providers to allocate resources more efficiently and reduce patient wait times.

For example, big data can help cancer patients avoid ER visits — and receive appropriate care when necessary. Especially near the end of life, emergency care for cancer patients can serve as a more stressful experience than anything and signal improper care. If and when facilities get to the point where they have organized, easily shareable systems of patient data, this can provide valuable insight into where these patients are in treatment and how they should likely move forward in the healthcare system with the most positive outcomes.

Wearable medical devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) allows internet-connected devices to share information at a rapid rate, which is clearly advantageous for healthcare facilities — including emergency departments. In particular, the wearable tech market is booming, allowing patients and healthcare providers to keep a close eye on various vitals even in remote situations. Digital triage can benefit from this greatly by providing patients and healthcare professionals with health information in real-time, leading to early detection of potential health issues. This can help facilitate ER visits and lead to postponing them if not necessary based on data.

For example, a patient wearing a smartwatch is able to:

• Continue monitoring health information if power is out;
• Make phone calls in critical situations, even if their mobile device is out of reach;
• Notify loved ones quickly in the event of an emergency;
• Precisely track their location through GPS, helping first responders;
• Streamline ER payments;
• Monitor vital signs like blood pressure, oxygen level, pulse, and respiration rate.

In the future, wearables will be able to monitor and transmit data on vitals like glucose levels and even EEGs and ECGs. These innovative wearable technologies, fueled by design advancements, are enabling next-generation diagnostics and, in turn, streamlined emergency care.

Robotics in critical care procedures
Robotic systems are increasingly being employed in critical care procedures, augmenting the capabilities of healthcare professionals. Robotic-assisted surgery has already made significant strides in various medical fields, and its application in emergency care is expanding. Robots can assist in delicate and precise procedures, improving patient safety and outcomes.

In the ER, robots can support healthcare providers by performing tasks such as disinfection, medication delivery, and patient monitoring. These robots can navigate through crowded environments with ease and provide valuable assistance during emergencies. Their integration into critical care procedures is expected to enhance efficiency and minimize risks associated with certain tasks.

Telehealth screening
Especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, telehealth has seen a surge in use in recent years. Remote healthcare has emerged as a vital tool for screening ER patients before even entering the hospital, especially in cases where physical presence may not be immediately necessary. By leveraging telehealth platforms, healthcare professionals can assess patients’ conditions, provide initial guidance, and determine whether an in-person ER visit is required.

Medical transportation tech
The future of emergency care extends beyond the physical ER building. Innovations in medical transportation technology aim to improve response times and the delivery of critical care.

Driverless ambulances
Ambulances without the need for a human driver may soon be more widely available, equipped with advanced sensors and AI algorithms. Real-time traffic data helps these self-driving ambulances navigate more efficiently, reducing transport times and ensuring prompt access to medical facilities. They can also be connected to doctors remotely, allowing for prompt advice on potentially life-saving medical care en route. These vehicles connected to the IoT will also be less likely to get in accidents while EMTs monitor patients along the way with integrated medical instruments.

Drone device delivery
Furthermore, the use of drones for medical device delivery shows promise in reaching patients quickly, especially in remote or hard-to-access areas. Drones can transport life-saving devices, such as automated external defibrillators (AEDs), to the scene of an emergency, enabling bystanders or trained individuals to provide immediate aid before medical professionals arrive.

How to make sure new MedTech is sustainable
While the integration of new technologies in emergency care brings numerous benefits, it is crucial to consider sustainability. The increased reliance on cloud-based medical devices and AI-powered systems requires substantial computing power and energy resources. Luckily, there are solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of computing through sustainable energy sources and improved grid output.

By adopting sustainable practices, such as optimizing energy consumption and leveraging renewable energy, the healthcare industry can ensure that this digital transformation and increased use of new medical technologies do not contribute to environmental degradation.

The future of emergency MedTech is bright, but it is crucial to approach these advancements with sustainability in mind to ensure a greener and more efficient healthcare system for years to come. Medical Product Outsourcing