Intelligent Health.tech Issue 18 | Page 18

ARMED WITH OBJECTIVE DATA FROM THEIR WEARABLE DEVICE , PATIENTS CAN HAVE MORE MEANINGFUL DISCUSSIONS WITH THEIR DOCTORS .
H E A L T H I N S I G H T S
about themselves . Keeping data siloed away in proprietary platforms that limit patient ownership undermines the goal of increasing patient engagement , accountability and empowerment over personal health management . Platforms like Apple Health showcase how wearable data should integrate seamlessly across apps chosen by patients and remain easily exportable and shareable according to patient preferences .

ARMED WITH OBJECTIVE DATA FROM THEIR WEARABLE DEVICE , PATIENTS CAN HAVE MORE MEANINGFUL DISCUSSIONS WITH THEIR DOCTORS .

Remote patient monitoring boosts access
The data and alerts provided by wearable devices enable remote patient monitoring by healthcare providers . This allows doctors to track high-risk patients without requiring them to physically come into the hospital for simple measurements . Detailed wearable data and telemedicine consultations can even replace in-person visits entirely when appropriate , vastly increasing the convenience and accessibility of care .
Expanding telemedicine access through wearable integration empowers patients by reducing barriers like transportation , mobility limitations or inflexible work schedules that traditionally impact users ’ access to healthcare . Wearables thus help fulfil the promise of patient-centred care that is tailored to the unique needs of each individual . In addition , it allows patients to better advocate for themselves and support their concerns about a potential illness with data .
Privacy risks and data security
While wearables present exciting opportunities for patient empowerment via data access , privacy risks remain regarding data sharing . There are valid concerns about
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