The Evolution of Patient Communication: Trends and Technologies

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored technology's crucial role in patient communication. In 2020, nearly half of the US population utilized technology to connect with healthcare providers, and this trend is expected to grow. Telehealth, often viewed as a supplement to in-person care, proves invaluable for reducing healthcare disparities and enhancing accessibility. Millennials find convenience in accessing medical advice through phones, while older adults benefit from remote consultations. Prioritizing customer service is pivotal, with online reviews emphasizing factors like wait times. The Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping healthcare, with wearables enabling remote patient monitoring. As technology advances, data security becomes paramount, addressing patient concerns. Ensuring HIPAA compliance, especially in AI and external services, is vital for safeguarding sensitive health data.