TECHNOLOGY IN MEDICINE
Use of technology in medical practice and education
Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 and its targets as discussed the challenges faced by education and training systems in achieving SDG 4. UNESCO are “committed to leading appropriate responses aimed at the systematic integration of AI to innovate education, teaching, and learning, and at leveraging AI to accelerate the delivery of open and flexible education systems…”
1 — High-Fidelity High-fidelity simulators, powered by AI algorithms, offer students a platform to practice, diagnose, and treat patients virtually. The use of technology in education can strengthen the overall system and promote equal access to learning. Some examples include LapSim by Surgical Science and the da Vinci Surgical System by Intuitive Surgical (used for robotic surgery training). Furthermore, USS (Ultrasound Simulation) simulators enable learners to practice ultrasound imaging techniques using realistic probes and virtual patient scenarios.
2 — Interactivity is another important aspect of this trend. VR simulations allow students to actively engage with patient cases, diagnose conditions, and make critical decisions. With the virtual environment, they can manipulate tools, collaborate with virtual healthcare teams, and observe real-time consequences of their actions. This experience enhances problem-solving abilities and clinical judgment (Burcu Tokuç and Gamze Varol 2023).
As we embrace the digital era in medical education, the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) will expand significantly. AI’s ability to analyze vast datasets, personalize learning experiences, and enhance practical skills is something to be excited about. This integration promises intelligent, data-driven, and exceptionally skilled medical professionals.
Furthermore, the availability of online platforms for creating quizzes and interactive content has indeed expanded. These tools empower users to engage with their audience, whether for educational purposes, marketing, or personal projects (Quizizz 2015)
3 — Podcasts, which are created by individuals as audio-visual content, have become increasingly popular for medical education due to their effectiveness. Their accessibility and affordability make them valuable resources for e-learning.
Based on self-reported data from an internally conducted survey of 10,089 subscribers to The Curbsiders podcast, about 38% identified themselves as internists, specialists, faculty, or post-training physicians, while 23% identified as residents or fellows, and 20% as advanced practitioners. The data indicates that medical education podcasts are gaining popularity across all training levels. Students constitute a sizable portion of the podcast subscriber base. Podcasting provides access to international expertise that might otherwise be challenging to obtain. Additionally, its format allows a relaxed atmosphere, which can be useful for learners. (Berk, J et al 2020)
4 — Videos are recognized as an effective learning resource for demonstrating techniques and specialised physical examination methods The videos have emerged as a particularly suitable platform for this purpose. Trainers upload instructional videos that are accessible to thousands of students seeking to grasp concepts typically taught in traditional, in-person lessons (Burcu Tokuç et al 2023)
5 — Virtual wards serves as a cohesive link between healthcare providers, simplifying processes from discharge to remote care. Hospitals are now adopting Robotic Process Automation to integrate corporate functions efficiently. Advanced RFID patient wristbands enhance patient tracking and bed management, supported by robust wireless networks (Matuszak, J. 2022)
ICSs are collaborative partnerships that unite health and care organizations within specific local areas. Their goal is to provide joined-up care. These systems plan and deliver integrated services to enhance the health of local communities.
6 — Digital Therapeutics are software-driven interventions rooted in evidence-based practices, designed to manage, prevent, or treat illnesses and diseases. These innovative solutions empower patients to take control of their symptoms, leading to improvements in clinical outcomes and overall quality of life. Utilizing a range of digital technologies, including smartphones, applications, and sensors, motivate patients to modify their behaviours effectively. Digital therapeutics represent a promising frontier in healthcare, using technology to enhance patient outcomes and accessibility.
In terms of therapeutic areas under study, psychiatric conditions have seen the most extensive research, accounting for the highest percentage of trials. This is followed by cardiovascular (11%), endocrinology (10%), addiction (10%), and neurology (8%) (Source: Data Therapeutic Alliance)
Some of the principles of digital therapeutics include preventing, managing and treating medical disorders, as well as providing medical device services or medications. Furthermore it involves prioritising patient privacy and implementing best practices in product development, management and maintenance (Phan P, et al 2023)
Comparison between digital therapeutics and conventional pharmacotherapy shows that digital therapeutics have lower development costs and provide real-time monitoring. However, there is a growing need for patient education and cyber-security solutions.
In conclusion, the use of technology in medical education as well as medical practice looks promising as they are likely to drive efficiency and reach more people in remote areas. It will also allow for a more personalized care plan for each patient. However, technology has its own limitations, and we need to be aware of the cost of implementing digital solutions, privacy, and accountability issues as well as the unequal access to technology, which would create disparities in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
References:
1- Burcu Tokuç and Gamze Varol (2023). Medical Education in the ERA of Advancing Technology. Balkan Medical Journal, 40(6), pp.395–399. doi:https://doi.org/10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2023.2023-7-79
2- Quizizz 2015 | Where motivation meets mastery. [online] Available at: https://quizizz.com/?lng=en.
3- Berk, J., Trivedi, S.P., Watto, M., Williams, P. and Centor, R. (2020). Medical Education Podcasts: Where We Are and Questions Unanswered. Journal of General Internal Medicine, [online] 35(7), pp.2176–2178. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-019-05606-29
4- Matuszak, J. (2022). Top 10 Healthcare Technology Trends. [online] KnowHow. Available at: https://knowhow.distrelec.com/medical-healthcare/top-10-healthcare-technology-trends/
5- Phan, P., Samir Mitragotri and Zhao, Z. (2023). Digital therapeutics in the clinic. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/btm2.10536
