3 Predictions for Healthcare IT Trends in 2020

Advancements in healthcare technology and the rate patients are purchasing wearables such as Fitbits and Apple Watches (1 in 10 American1 adults were predicted to own a smart watch by 2019), in addition to downloading apps that monitor health data, is proof that patients acting as consumers and taking control of their well-being isn’t going away any time soon.

With that in mind, as we move into the next decade, ScriptDrop's healthcare experts made a few predictions on products and technologies that will likely see continued growth and innovation based on patient demand. An underlying theme was discovered: the ability for patients to heal and monitor their health from home, and focus on getting well.

1. Wearable Medical Devices

There are many different types of devices patients can utilize to monitor health data other than smart watches.

For example, the first AI medical monitoring device2 that can measure multiple vital signs (pulse, respiration, oxygen saturation, temperature, and mobility) has received FDA clearance for home use. This allows a patient and their physician to maintain visibility and track important health information without ever having to visit the office. It can also help in lowering hospital readmissions by giving patients the power to stay in front of their vitals.

2. Telehealth

Over 70 percent of patients3 would prefer chatting with a physician via video rather than in an office setting. Companies such as CareClix4 and Doctor on Demand5 provide patients with an in-office experience without ever having to leave the comfort of home or work.

It’s possible to even take a photo of what ails and share with a board-certified physician so they can make an accurate diagnosis. In some cases, it may require making a follow-up face-to-face appointment, but telehealth is becoming increasingly common for maladies that patients were previously choosing an urgent care setting such as the flu, common cold, rash, or minor sports injury.

3. Prescription Delivery

For obvious reasons, we’re pretty excited about this one. More and more patients are choosing to keep their germs at home and are visiting a doctor from the comfort of their couch, and that includes opting out of visiting a pharmacy when instead they can have their prescription delivered. In 2019, ScriptDrop’s integrated solution worked to deliver over 523,000 prescriptions to patients all over the country6.

There are numerous prescription delivery solutions available, from e-Commerce, in-store, and in-workflow. Check out ScriptDrop’s industry report for a breakdown of what’s what in the space. If you’re trying to figure out a solution that is best for your practice or pharmacy, the report is a great place to start.

2020 and Beyond

From monitoring, to telehealth, to medication in hand, prescription delivery is the last piece of the puzzle on the path to getting more patients on the road to recovery.

The next decade will be one to watch as healthcare IT companies continue to innovate solutions that will align with patient demand and care.

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