Advances in technology are continually reshaping the way healthcare providers approach patient care. Among these innovations, the emergence of fifth-generation mobile networks (5G) has the potential to redefine healthcare delivery.
The value of global 5G healthcare was estimated at USD 215 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 3.667 billion by 2026, a growth of 76%. Increasing adoption of telemedicine and robotic surgery, and increasing use of 5G-enabled wearable medical devices for real-time remote patient monitoring are driving the growth of this market.
Other factors driving growth include 5G technology's ability to quickly transmit large amounts of patient data, advances in communications technology, and the availability of low-cost sensors.
5G unleashes the power of telemedicine
At the heart of the 5G revolution is telemedicine, which has seen significant growth during the global pandemic. 5G's ultra-fast speeds and low latency allow healthcare professionals to conduct real-time virtual consultations with patients, allowing them to access treatment from virtually anywhere. This is not only convenient, but also reduces the workload of overburdened healthcare systems.
Remote patient monitoring is also becoming more common. The networked wearable devices and medical sensors are all 5G-enabled and continuously monitor the patient's vital signs and disease progression in real-time.
This approach to medical management not only allows for early detection of complications, but also allows for personalized treatment plans and improved outcomes, especially for patients with chronic conditions.
In Malaysia, for example, the government is considering digital health solutions for Malaysians.
Minister of Communications Fahmi Fazil announced the CelcomDigi digital healthcare solution. This allows primary care providers such as clinics and pharmacies to choose the best connectivity – mobile or fiber – and consider choosing a digital healthcare solution.
Like many countries, Malaysia has an obesity problem and chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure are becoming more common. This means that innovative healthcare solutions are desperately needed to reduce the burden on public healthcare services.
Subang Jaya Medical Center, a private tertiary hospital in Malaysia, recently launched the country's first connected health service called Connected Care. The 400-bed hospital is a joint venture operated by Ramsay Healthcare Australia and Sime Darby Malaysia.
The solution will eventually be offered across six healthcare areas, with the first services being a telemedicine service for medical inquiries and appointments, and a remote monitoring service for elderly patients.
Brian Lin, CEO of Subang Jaya, said: “We want to move from serving patients to serving people, from delivering healthcare to delivering health, and from hospital to home. “Connected care is transforming healthcare delivery and empowering patients through seamless access to specialized and affordable services.” Take care of yourself in the comfort of your own home. ”
Fast and reliable 5G for healthcare
5G speed and reliability are key here. Large medical image files, such as MRI scans and X-rays, can be sent quickly, allowing medical professionals to make timely and accurate diagnoses. Additionally, real-time data sharing and collaboration between multidisciplinary teams enables the delivery of personalized care.
The technology also opens up new therapeutic possibilities such as remote surgery, and in-theater use cases include harnessing the power of robotics and real-time communication networks.
5G cost and time savings for healthcare providers
Cost reduction is also a factor for 5G. Telecommunications company Vodafone UK recently published research showing that 5G technology could lead to savings of around £1 billion a year for the UK's NHS. This equates to her 15,400 full-time nursing positions.
Vodafone's modeling incorporates the benefits of remote patient monitoring, freeing up patients and healthcare workers from providing face-to-face care and freeing up beds for those most in need.
A Vodafone poll of 500 NHS nurses found that two-thirds (64%) want to learn more about digital transformation and are excited about the role technology can play in improving the NHS. is the answer. Almost half (46%) are optimistic about technology's potential to transform everyday work.
Nurses have high levels of digital engagement
The survey also shows that digital engagement and understanding among nurses is high, with 71% saying they have a good understanding of 5G, compared to 38% of the general public.
Anne-Marie Vine-Lott, director of health at Vodafone UK, said: “Nurses are the most active promoters and adopters of the use of technology in healthcare and are deeply involved in the NHS's use of digital technology.
“Like us, they know that technologies like 5G will have huge benefits for patients and NHS staff, so now is the time to listen and act.”
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