How IoT Can Be Used in Healthcare

How can IoT be used in healthcare? When looking at valuable purposes for how IoT can be used, healthcare undoubtedly comes up top. The need for IoT (Internet of Things) technology in the care sector is growing rapidly and benefits everyone, from doctors to patients and families to physicians. 

IoT devices are cutting-edge and future-focused, using advanced sensors to share and gather data via an internet connection. Often referred to as 'smart' devices, IoT can be used for anything from consumer convenience - as seen in smart speakers and smart watches - all the way to big-time supply chain manufacturing purposes (IIoT), such as factory machines or aeroplane engines. Regardless of the industry, IoT has proven itself to be the perfect way to gather an analyse data, save labour and make efficient use of company's time and resources. 

It only makes sense, therefore, that the Internet of Things would translate as the perfect tool for medical professionals all over the world. But exactly how can IoT be used in healthcare, and what are some of the benefits of this modern technology? 

IoT healthcare devices that are changing the game 

Prior to IoT, remote monitoring of the health and wellbeing of patients was an unknown concept, with all checkups having to take place via direct doctor-patient communication. The introduction of IoT devices allowed healthcare workers to keep a constant eye on their patients vitals and fundamental wellbeing, leading to a reduction in hospital admissions. Let's take a look at a few examples of how IoT can be used in healthcare. 

Remote monitoring of patients

Remote patient IoT monitoring means that nothing goes amiss. IoT sensors can collect data on patients who aren't present in a surgery, including blood pressure rate, heart rate, the patient's temperature and much more, before delivering this information to the relevant application. Depending on the algorithm, alerts can be generated so that healthcare providers are made aware if their patient is in need of urgent help. 

Monitoring heart rates

One way that IoT can be used in health care is to keep an eye on patient's heart rates remotely. Small, portable IoT sensors are more convenient as they don't have to be connected via wires to a machine. They can also pick up on unusual, sporadic heart rate fluctuations, which is something that could be missed in a one-off surgery visit. 

Mood monitoring

Keeping an eye on depression symptoms can be a difficult task, as moods can change so rapidly and circumstantially, as well as being fully reliant upon patients accurately reporting their feelings. The development of IoT devices that are mood aware has been a game changer, analysing physical data (e.g. heart rate) to paint an emotional picture. 

The benefits of using IoT in healthcare 

The introduction of IoT in the healthcare sector has been revolutionary, allowing for the provision of on-the-go and unlimited care and especially benefiting people who may live alone. IoT monitoring devices are also an effective way to prevent patients from catching infections via environmental monitoring equipment, as well as saving time and resources. 

If you're working in the healthcare sector, Your Comms Group provide workforce solutions that allow you and your team to offer your patients the best help possible. We also offer a range of bespoke, multi-network IoT SIM cards with multi-card discounts that are designed to suit you and your environment. For more information, take a look at our online prices or speak to an agent today.