As Hotwire’s consumer practice gears up for CES, we’ve been thinking about industries that have really taken advantage of innovative technology. While healthcare is an industry like no other, businesses can learn invaluable lessons from the adoption of technology across the medical sector.

Trialling tech can lead to massive improvements, not only in the way that organisations operate but in the services they provide. A willingness to experiment has led to real world solutions to life threatening problems.

Here’s a quick look at five technologies and the effect they’re having on our greatest asset of all – our health:

  • Artificial Intelligence

AI can help medical professionals find more relevant treatments by sifting through data. AI also powers personal health assistants that give people more control over their wellbeing. These intelligent assistants can send prompts, reminders and advice across a wide range of health issues.

  • Advanced Robotics

One important application of advanced robotics in healthcare is the use of drone technology to deliver vital medical supplies to remote or inaccessible locations. Amputees have also benefitted from robotic limbs manufactured by companies such as Human Technologies Inc.

  •  Augmented Reality

Medical professionals can now be trained using augmented reality templates, guiding them through procedures. Surgeons can now use AR in the operating room as a potentially life-saving tool, while nurses can use it for simpler tasks like locating veins.

  •  Smart Home Devices

Just like an app or an AI healthcare assistant, smart home devices can send alerts, reminders, and advice to enhance their owners’ health. This could range anywhere from prompting them to take medication to guiding them through a low fat recipe.

  • Wearables

Wearable devices have come a long way from clunky pedometers. Brands like FitBit and Garmin have taken over a highly profitable market, capitalising on the trend of personal health management. The next iteration of these devices are expected to move within the body in the form of implants.