Telehealth for Rural Areas: Bridging the Healthcare Gap

Telehealth for Rural Areas: Bridging the Healthcare Gap

by Ree AI Health Tech

In the vast expanses of rural America, access to quality healthcare has long been a challenge. But telehealth can be a digital lifeline for these communities. According to the American Hospital Association, 76% of U.S. hospitals connect with patients through video and other technology. This underscores the growing importance of telehealth for rural areas where medical facilities are often few and far between. 

Let’s explore how this technology is making waves in rural healthcare, its benefits, challenges, and what the future holds.

Contents

Benefits of Telehealth for Rural Residents

Telehealth is changing healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where access to medical services can be limited. 

A man hitchhiking from a farm

In a survey of 202 adults living in a rural area, 88% of them were open to telehealth. When asked about barriers to show up for doctor appointments or receiving adequate healthcare, they cited several reasons (Kolluri et al., 2022):

  • The wait to see the doctor is too long – 32.7%

  • Too expensive – 24.8%

  • Lack of transportation – 22.8%

  • Schedule conflicts – 22.8%

  • Not sick – 15.8%

  • Distrust the quality of healthcare – 13.9%

  • Other – 4.5% (“My insurance isn’t accepted for at least 100 miles.”)

With this data, we can clearly see how telehealth can positively impact rural patients. Here are some specific benefits.

Better access to doctors with reduced travel

For many rural residents, visiting a doctor means traveling long distances, which can be costly and time-consuming. Finding a specialist is also challenging due to limited availability. 

Telehealth bridges this gap by connecting patients with specialists through video visits and online consultations, which eliminates the need for long travel (Butzner & Cuffee, 2021). Patients who receive care from the comfort of their homes save on transportation costs and reduce the need to take time off from work.

Faster access to care in emergencies

Tele-emergency services provide real-time access to emergency medicine physicians, allowing rural healthcare providers to manage emergencies more effectively (Rural Health Information Hub, 2024). This quick access can be crucial in life-threatening situations.

Increased continuity of care for chronic conditions

Black woman gold top showing phone with glucose meter on arm

Chronic disease management is vital for improving patient outcomes. Telehealth enables continuous monitoring and follow-up care, ensuring that patients with chronic conditions receive consistent and timely interventions.

Improved patient engagement and health outcomes

Telehealth encourages patients to take an active role in their healthcare. With tools like remote monitoring and mobile health apps, patients can track their health metrics and communicate with healthcare providers more frequently, leading to better health outcomes.

These benefits highlight how telehealth is making healthcare more accessible and effective for rural patients. However, implementing telehealth in these areas comes with its own set of challenges.

Success Stories: Rural Telehealth in Action

Many rural communities have successfully implemented telehealth programs with success stories to celebrate. Here are a few.

Effective telehealth programs 

Project ECHO®

Programs like Project ECHO® have connected rural healthcare providers with specialists, allowing for better management of complex cases (Rural Health Information Hub, 2024). These kinds of programs show the potential of telehealth to improve healthcare delivery in rural communities.

Hybrid healthcare in the South

Woman getting a shot in her arm

East Carolina University (ECU) developed a hybrid healthcare program to improve health outcomes for rural residents in that area. A nurse visits patients at home and connects them virtually with providers at health centers. 

This program allows patients to access various healthcare services, including consultations with pharmacists, while the nurse assesses their needs. The program has proven beneficial, as illustrated by a bed-bound diabetes patient who, after joining, received comprehensive care and reduced hospital visits. 

This hybrid approach combines telehealth with in-person visits to address barriers faced by rural patients, such as long travel distances to healthcare facilities. It also allows the clinical team to collaborative and address patients’ health issues, making them more discoverable and actionable. 

Mobile clinic for substance abuse in the Mid-Atlantic

Wide top white van driving down street

The University of Maryland (UMD) launched a telehealth program to address the shortage of healthcare providers for opioid use disorder (OUD) in rural areas, particularly after a care center in western Maryland lost its OUD provider. They partnered with health departments and secured funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to set up mobile clinics equipped with vans and computers. 

These clinics, staffed by a counselor, nurse, and peer recovery specialist, park in central locations to provide care. Telehealth plays a crucial role in expanding access to OUD treatment. This initiative has successfully served hundreds of people, reaching individuals who otherwise might not have access to treatment.

Emergency care access in rural hospitals in the Midwest

Two ambulances in front of Emergency entrance to hospital

In rural areas, residents face higher risks of death from accidents and strokes. Telehealth allows specially trained providers to assist rural hospital staff in delivering prompt emergency care, which is crucial for improving outcomes. 

One such case study comes from Sanford Health, which uses telehealth to improve emergency care access in rural hospitals across South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota. Their program connects 32 rural emergency service locations to specialists through a virtual care hub. This hub allows rural staff to quickly consult with specialists on treating strokes, burns, and other traumas. 

The program’s success relies on technology, including two large monitors that allow specialists to access patient information from multiple sources simultaneously. 

Impact on local healthcare providers and clinics 

Telehealth allows rural clinics to offer a broader range of services, reducing the need for patient transfers and hospital bypasses. There can be caveats to this, but telehealth can improve the viability of rural healthcare facilities and helped retain healthcare providers in these areas. 

Economic benefits for rural communities 

Implementing telehealth can lead to economic benefits such as reduced patient transportation costs, increased local pharmacy revenues, and decreased hospital staffing costs.

These success stories illustrate the transformative impact telehealth can have on rural healthcare, providing a model for future initiatives.

While telehealth often leads to positive outcomes, its implementation in rural areas is not without obstacles.

Challenges in Implementing Rural Telehealth

Despite its advantages, telehealth implementation in rural areas faces several hurdles. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing effective solutions.

Telehealth access for people experiencing homelessness

Man in homeless shelter

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) serve vulnerable, unhoused, and underinsured people in the U.S. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, FQHCs set up telehealth in shelters and community organizations, used vans for mobile telehealth services, and gave smartphones and tablets to shelters to connect unhoused patients with primary care doctors and specialists. 

However, challenges remain, like unreliable phone and internet service. Post-pandemic, many unhoused patients still rely on phone visits instead of video visits (Azar et al, 2024).

Limited broadband internet access

Reliable internet is essential for telehealth services. Unfortunately, many rural areas lack the necessary broadband infrastructure, which can hinder the delivery of telehealth services.

Technology literacy and adoption among older populations

Older adults may struggle with using new technologies, which can limit their ability to benefit from telehealth services. Providing education and support is necessary to increase technology adoption among this demographic (Gurupur & Miao, 2022).

Regulatory and licensing inconsistencies

Telehealth often involves providing services across state lines, since technology allows for worldwide connections. This can lead to regulatory and licensing challenges. The requirements vary by state, which complicates the process for healthcare providers (Gurupur & Miao, 2022).

Reimbursement and insurance coverage complexities

Doctor on the phone

Insurance coverage for telehealth also varies, as some providers don’t reimburse certain types of care. For example, each state has different rules and regulations about the types of services that can be reimbursed by Medicaid. This inconsistency discourages some healthcare providers from offering telehealth services.

Privacy and security concerns in digital health platforms 

Protecting patient data is a top priority in telehealth. Ensuring that digital health platforms comply with privacy regulations like HIPAA is essential to maintain patient trust.

Language barriers

In a study by UC Davis in Sacramento with The University of Queensland in Brisbane, providers had mixed experiences with interpreter services during telehealth visits. Some found it challenging to use interpreters effectively through their clinic’s telehealth platform. In some cases, non-English speaking patients were asked to come to the clinic in person instead of using telehealth. One provider mentioned relying on family members for translation, but this wasn’t always possible (Azar et al, 2024). 

On the other hand, many providers said they could meet the needs of non-English speaking patients using available interpreter services. Some clinics had smooth workflows for integrating interpreters into telehealth visits, while others were still working on finding good solutions to this issue (Azar et al, 2024).

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between policymakers, healthcare providers, and technology companies. By overcoming these obstacles, telehealth can become a more integral part of rural healthcare.

The Future of Telehealth in Rural Healthcare

Lin et al (2018) found that health centers located in rural areas were associated with a 10-percentage-point increase in the probability of telehealth use, and 12.2 percentage points more likely to use telehealth for mental health care, compared to those in urban areas. 

Several years later, technology continues to improve, and telehealth plays an even more important role in providing healthcare to people in rural communities. Here are some trends and developments to watch.

Emerging technologies enhancing telehealth capabilities 

Innovations like wearable devices and artificial intelligence (AI) are expanding the possibilities of telehealth. These technologies provide more comprehensive monitoring and personalized care.

Policy changes and initiatives regarding rural telehealth 

Governments and organizations recognize the importance of telehealth in rural areas. However, telehealth in those communities can negatively impact their local healthcare access, and several federal waivers are set to expire soon. 

Rural vs. urban healthcare systems

Empty winding road

A study by the University of Tennesee at Knoxville found that rural hospitals often lose patients to urban hospitals offering telehealth services. This shift results in financial strain for rural hospitals, affecting their investment choices and capital structure. As a result, some rural hospitals may have to cut back on staff, including doctors and nurses, or even close down intensive care units. And in extreme cases, this can lead to bankruptcy. 

These financial challenges arise because rural hospitals lose revenue when patients opt for telehealth services from urban providers. This situation is worsened because rural hospitals typically face higher financial risks. 

Policymakers and patients should consider these long-term financial impacts when using telehealth services, as they can have unintended negative consequences for rural healthcare providers. Initiatives aimed at expanding broadband access and simplifying regulatory processes are crucial for the continued growth of telehealth.

Federal waiver expirations

At the end of 2024, six federal waivers and provisions will end  unless the U.S. government takes further action:

  • Site Waivers: Temporary Medicare changes, including geographic and site flexibilities, are set to expire, which affects FQHCs and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs).

  • In-Person Follow-Ups for Mental Telehealth: A waiver that removes the need for an in-person visit within six months of an initial telemental health visit is expiring.
  • HSA Safe Harbor: Laws that allow high-deductible health plans to cover telehealth services without affecting health savings accounts is ending.
  • Controlled Substance Prescribing: The temporary Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) guidelines that allow telehealth providers to prescribe controlled substances without an in-person visit are set to expire.
  • Provider Privacy: Medicare telehealth providers currently have privacy regarding their location on claim forms, but this may change.
  • Acute Hospital Care at Home: A waiver that allows remote patient monitoring by eliminating the need for 24/7 on-site nursing is expiring.

Integration with other healthcare services and systems

Telehealth is becoming more integrated with traditional healthcare services, offering a seamless experience for patients. This integration can improve care coordination and ensure that telehealth complements in-person care effectively.

Potential for addressing healthcare disparities

Asian woman looking at phone in disgust

Telehealth has the potential to reduce healthcare disparities by providing equitable access to care for underserved populations. By making healthcare more accessible, telehealth can help address some of the systemic issues contributing to health disparities.

Conclusion

Quality healthcare should be equitable and available for everyone, regardless of their zip code. Telehealth can be a powerful tool to address the healthcare needs of rural communities. By breaking down geographical barriers, it’s bringing quality care to those who need it most. 

As technology advances and policies adapt, there are many opportunities for telehealth to further improve rural healthcare. By continuing to innovate and address existing challenges, telehealth can become a cornerstone of rural healthcare delivery.

Whether you’re a patient, provider, or policymaker, embracing telehealth could be the key to ensuring that everyone, regardless of location, has access to the care they deserve. The future of rural healthcare is here, and it’s digital. Are you ready to connect?

References

Azar, R., Chan, R., Sarkisian, M., Burns, R. D., Marcin, J. P. , Gotthardt, C. De Guzman, K. R., Rosenthal, J. L., & Haynes, S. C. (2024). Adapting telehealth to address health equity: Perspectives of primary care providers across the United States. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare; 1-7. doi:10.1177/1357633X241238780

Butzner, M., & Cuffee, Y. (2021). Telehealth Interventions and Outcomes Across Rural Communities in the United States: Narrative Review. Journal of Medical Internet Research; 23(8). doi.org/10.2196/29575

Expanding access to emergency care in rural hospitals. (2024). Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/community-stories/expanding-access-emergency-care-rural-hospitals

Gurupur, V. P., & Miao, Z. (2022). A brief analysis of challenges in implementing telehealth in a rural setting. MHealth; 8. doi.org/10.21037/mhealth-21-38

Home-based, hybrid health care in rural communities. (2024). Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/community-stories/home-based-hybrid-health-care-rural-communities

Kolluri, S., Stead, T. S., Mangal, R. K., Littell, J., & Ganti, L. (2022). Telehealth in Response to the Rural Health Disparity. Health Psychology Research; 10(3). doi.org/10.52965/001c.37445

Lin, C. C., Dievler, A. , Robbins, C., Sripipatana, A., Quinn, M. & Nair, S. (2018). Telehealth in Health Centers: Key Adoption Factors, Barriers, and Opportunities. Retrieved from 

https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2018.05125

Mobile clinics for substance use disorder. (2024). Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/community-stories/mobile-clinics-substance-use-disorder

Stewart, H. (2024). Telehealth trends in 2024: Converging challenges on the virtual care frontier. CHG Healthcare. Retrieved from https://chghealthcare.com/blog/telehealth-trends

Telehealth and Health Information Technology in Rural Healthcare. (2024). Rural Health Information Hub. Retrieved from https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/telehealth-health-it

Telemedicine usage can have unexpected impact on rural communities’ access to local care. (2024). News Medical. Retrieved from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240801/Telemedicine-usage-can-have-unexpected-impact-on-rural-communities-access-to-local-care.aspx

The Key Benefits of Telehealth in Rural Areas. (n.d.). Health Recovery Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.healthrecoverysolutions.com/blog/the-key-benefits-of-telehealth-in-rural-areas

How to Set Up a Home Health Monitoring Station: The Ultimate Guide

How to Set Up a Home Health Monitoring Station: The Ultimate Guide

by Ree Health Tech Med Tech

Home health monitoring wearables to track blood pressure, heart rate and sleep are popular.  A 2022 AnalyticsIQ study of 8,000 Americans showed that we’ve doubled our use of wearable health devices between 2020 and 2021. Almost half of the respondents used at least one type of wearable tech, and Black, Latinx, male, and Gen X respondents used it the most.

This surge in popularity is no surprise, as home health monitoring empowers people to take control of their well-being from the comfort of their own homes. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of setting up a home health monitoring system. 

Contents

Let’s start with the fundamentals.

Home Health Monitoring Basics

Definition of home health monitoring

Home health monitoring uses technology to track and manage health conditions at home or on the go. 

Home health monitoring systems let you monitor various health metrics and share the data with healthcare providers remotely. It includes connected health devices and apps to collect, analyze, and transmit health data, facilitating continuous health management without frequent in-office visits (Story, 2010).

Source: ScienceDirect.com, Ahmed & Kannan, 2022.

Key benefits of monitoring health at home

Home health monitoring offers numerous advantages:

  • Increased Health Awareness: People become more aware of their health status, making informed decisions about diet, lifestyle, and treatment options.

  • Reduced Physical Consultations: Minimizes the need for in-person visits, which can be beneficial for people with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

  • Real-Time Intervention: Allows for prompt medical interventions based on real-time data, to prevent potential complications.

  • Cost Savings: Reduces healthcare costs by decreasing hospital admissions and emergency room visits.

  • Improved Chronic Disease Management: Enhances the management of chronic conditions through continuous monitoring and timely adjustments to treatment plans.

Trackable health metrics 

Heart illustration for ECG monitor

Home health monitoring can track a wide range of health metrics, including:

  • Vital Signs: Heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

  • Biometric Data: Blood glucose levels, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and body composition.

  • Activity Levels: Steps taken, calories burned, and sleep patterns.

  • Symptoms: Tracking symptoms related to chronic conditions or acute illnesses.

Medical and tech devices for home health monitoring

Several technologies and devices are available for home health monitoring (Dusun, 2024):

  • Smart Scales: Measure weight and body composition.

  • Blood Pressure Monitors: Track blood pressure levels.

  • Glucose Meters: Monitor blood glucose levels for diabetes management.

  • Pulse Oximeters: Measure blood oxygen saturation.

  • Wearable Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches: Monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns.

  • ECG Monitors: Record heart rhythms to detect irregularities.

  • Medication Adherence Trackers: Ensure people take medications as prescribed.

Other conditions require more complicated devices that require training from your provider, including:

  • Apnea monitors

  • Heart monitors

  • Special monitors for dementia and Parkinson’s disease

  • Breathing apparatuses

  • Fetal monitors

Let’s review each of the less complex medical devices in turn.

Essential Devices for Home Health Monitoring

Smart scales for weight and body composition

Smart scale with monitor

A study in England showed that smart scale users who weighed themselves often were more likely to lose weight, and weigh themselves after recent weight loss (Sperrin et al., 2016).

Smart scales go beyond measuring weight; they can also analyze body composition, including body fat percentage, muscle mass, and bone density. These scales connect to health apps, allowing users to track their progress over time.

Before measuring your body composition:

  • Don’t drink alcohol for 2 days before measuring.

  • Avoid exercise, coffee, chocolate, or other diuretics (drinks that make you pee a lot) for 12 hours.

     
  • Don’t eat or drink anything for 4 hours before.

  • Don’t measure if you’re sick with a fever or diarrhea.

  • Use the bathroom within 30 minutes of measuring.

How to use a smart scale

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to measure your body composition:

  1. Enter your age, sex, and height into the device.

  2. Stand in the right position to ensure you’re touching the electrodes properly.

  3. If your hands and feet are very dry, use a damp cloth to moisten them.

  4. Stand still during the measurement.

These devices may show body fat as a percentage, but don’t rely on just one measurement. Take three in a row, find the average (add the results, then divide by three), and write it down in a health log or app.

Blood pressure monitors

Woman on couch with Blood pressure monitor at home

Blood pressure monitors are essential for people with hypertension or heart conditions. These devices provide accurate readings of systolic and diastolic blood pressure to manage cardiovascular health.

Before taking your blood pressure:

  • Don’t measure your blood pressure until at least 30 minutes after having tea, coffee, energy drinks, cigarettes, or exercising.

  • Remove tight clothes and use the bathroom. 

How to use a blood pressure monitor

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to take your blood pressure:

  1. Sit in a chair with back support, and legs uncrossed with feet flat on the floor. Rest your arm on a table at heart level.

  2. Put the cuff on their bare arm and start measuring. Don’t move or talk during the measurement.

  3. Take two readings one minute apart, and take the average of them (add the results, then divide by two). For better accuracy, you can do three readings, but it’s optional.

  4. Write down the final number in a health log or app to track any changes. 

Glucose meters for diabetes management

Glucose meter on hand with a blood drop

Glucose meters, or glucometers, are crucial for diabetes management, which helps people  monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. Some advanced models can sync with smartphones and health apps for easy tracking and data sharing with healthcare providers.

How to use a glucose meter

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to measure your blood sugar:

  1. Check if that the test strips have not expired.

  2. Wash and dry your hands.

  3. Take a test strip and close the container. Use a new lancet each time.

  4. Put the lancet in the right spot on the device and set how deep it will prick based on what works for you or how thick your skin is.

  5. After loading the device, prick your ring or middle finger. You might need to gently squeeze your finger for enough blood.


    Once the blood touches the strip, the meter will take a moment to complete the measurement. The result will show up on the device or your phone.

  6. Throw away the used lancet in a special container for sharp objects and the strip in a biohazard bin. You might need to press your finger with cotton to stop bleeding. You can clean the lancet tip with an alcohol wipe. Write down your blood sugar reading right away in a health log.

Pulse oximeters for oxygen saturation levels

Man taking pulse oximeter reading

Pulse oximeters measure the oxygen saturation level in the blood, which is vital for people with respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or COVID-19. These devices are easy to use and provide quick, accurate readings.

Before you take a measurement with a pulse oximeter, remove any nail polish from the finger you’re going to use.

How to use a pulse oximeter

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to measure your oxygen level:

  1. Wash and dry your hands.

  2. Put the device on your finger so it’s not too loose or tight. Don’t use a finger with a tattoo or henna on it.

  3. Make sure your finger covers the lights and sensor properly.

  4. Avoid bright light, which can cause errors. If you can’t, cover the device with a cloth.

  5. Start the device, and keep your finger still during measurement.

Every few days of use, clean the device with an alcohol wipe to ensure accurate readings.

Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches

Woman in a jacket touching smart watch

Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches monitor various health metrics, including heart rate, steps taken, calories burned, and sleep patterns. They are popular for their convenience and integration with health and fitness apps.

Note that sometimes, these devices make errors. These errors can happen because the sensors in these devices aren’t perfect at counting or estimating. For example, fitness trackers worn on the wrist may count fewer steps than you actually take if you walk slowly (Hicks et al., 2019).

ECG monitors

Irregular heartbeats, known as heart rate arrhythmia, are a major sign of common heart diseases and can be very dangerous. Because these irregularities can happen suddenly, are hard to notice, and change quickly, it’s important to keep track of heart rate changes in real-time to spot and prevent problems early (Zhang & Yang, 2023).

ECG monitor closeup on stomach

A home electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor can track your heart rate. Note that while wearable ECG monitors can detect heart rhythm issues, but may miss some due to intermittent recording. They’re usually expensive and not covered by insurance. 

Medical-grade monitors are more accurate, using chest sensors for continuous recording. Personal devices use wrist or finger sensors and may require manual activation, making them less reliable for serious conditions (Samaan, 2022).

Before measuring your heartbeat:

  • Move electronic devices, metal, and magnets away from the ECG device.

  • Sit quietly for 5 minutes.

How to use

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to analyze your heartbeat:

  1. If your hands are dry, use a damp cloth to moisten them.

  2. Follow the instructions to place the electrodes correctly.

  3. Start the device. Don’t move or talk during the measurement.

  4. Have a doctor look at the results afterward.

Medication adherence trackers

Taking your medication as prescribed is a critical part of your overall health and wellness. To help you remember when to take your meds, use one or more medication adherence monitoring technologies like:

  • Medication reminder apps

  • Electronic pill boxes, bags, or bottles

  • Ingestible sensors

  • Blister packs

While these devices offer real-time data and improve adherence monitoring, they face challenges like accuracy issues and expensive implementation. Most rely on proxy measures like device opening events, limiting data precision, and integration with clinical systems is a challenge. (Mason et al., 2022).

Next, we’ll learn how to pick the right health monitoring device for your specific needs.

Choosing the Right Monitoring Devices

Factors to consider when selecting devices

Purple pulse oximeter and mask

When choosing home health monitoring devices, consider the following factors:

  • Ease of Use: Devices should be user-friendly, especially for those with limited technical skills.

  • Accuracy and Reliability: Look for devices with proven accuracy and reliability, supported by clinical validation.

  • Compatibility: Ensure devices are compatible with your smartphone, tablet, or other health platforms.

  • Battery Life: Consider devices with long battery life to avoid frequent recharging.

  • Customer Support: Opt for brands that offer robust customer support and warranty services.

Compatibility with smartphones and other tech

Many home health monitoring devices are designed to sync with smartphones and other tech platforms. This integration allows for seamless data transfer, real-time monitoring, and easy access to health metrics through dedicated apps.

Accuracy and reliability of different brands

To ensure you choose the right device, check that the device is approved by the proper authority such as the FDA or ISO (Mondal & Mondal, 2021).

Research and reviews can also help determine the accuracy and reliability of different brands. Look for devices with positive feedback from users and healthcare professionals, and check for any clinical validation or certifications. 

Once you get your medical device, it’s important to use them properly, and calibrate them at the intervals the manufacturer recommends to maintain its accuracy (Mondal & Mondal, 2021). 

Budget considerations and cost-effectiveness

While some advanced devices can be expensive, there are cost-effective options available that still offer reliable performance. Consider your budget and prioritize devices that provide the best value for money without compromising on essential features.

Once you’ve chosen your devices, it’s vital to address the important aspects of data protection and privacy.

Privacy and Security Considerations

Blue lock shield

Home health monitoring and remote patient monitoring (RPM) are part of telehealth.  Telehealth provides convenience, but also comes with security risks and issues (Houser et al., 2023):

Let’s look at a few best practices to protect and secure your personal health information.

Protect your health data from breaches

Health data is sensitive and must be protected from breaches. Some tips:

  • Use strong passwords for your health apps and devices.

  • Turn on two-factor authentication in your apps.

  • Use email, chat, or messages through the patient portal. This is especially useful when a private location is temporarily unavailable. If the situation isn’t temporary, ask your health provider for suggestions (Houser et al., 2023).

     
  • Regularly update your software to protect against vulnerabilities.

Understand data ownership and sharing policies

Some apps may share data with third parties for research or marketing purposes. Read the privacy policies of your health apps and devices to understand who owns your data and they share it. Opt for apps that prioritize user privacy and offer clear data ownership policies.

Secure your home network for health devices

Some tips to secure your home network include:

  • Use a strong Wi-Fi password and enabling network encryption.

     
  • Check the URL address bar of your browser before you enter your personal information on a website. A secure website will show a lock icon in the address bar, and look for https:// at the beginning of the URL (as some do not include the “s”).

  • Install and use anti-virus software on your devices.

  • Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for health monitoring, as they are more susceptible to breaches.

Check compliance with health data regulations 

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a regulation in the U.S. that protects the privacy and security of people’s personal health information. Check whether your health monitoring devices and apps are HIPAA-compliant before you use them, or the similar standards in your region if you’re not in the U.S. (Gerke et al., 2020).

Now that you know how to secure your data, it’s time to create an effective monitoring environment in your home.

Setting Up Your Home Health Monitoring System

Create a dedicated space for health monitoring

Black woman smiling at phone with glucose meter on arm

Designate a specific area in your home for health monitoring. This space should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions to ensure accurate measurements. Keep all your monitoring devices and accessories organized and easily accessible.

Connect devices to your home network

Most home health monitoring devices use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect to your home network. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to pair each device with your smartphone or tablet. Ensure your home network is secure to protect your health data.

Sync devices with health apps and platforms

Download the necessary health apps for your devices and create accounts if required. Synchronize your devices with these apps to enable data transfer and real-time monitoring. Popular health platforms include Apple Health, Google Fit, and dedicated apps from device manufacturers.

Set a daily routine for regular measurements

Consistency is key to effective home health monitoring. Establish a routine for taking measurements, such as checking your blood pressure every morning or measuring your blood glucose levels before meals. Set reminders on your smartphone to help you stay on track.

With your system set up, let’s see how to make sense of the data you’re collecting.

Interpreting and Using Health Data

Learn about health metrics 

Get familiar with the health metrics your devices track, and understand what they mean. For example, know the normal ranges for blood pressure, blood glucose, and oxygen saturation levels. Health apps often provide explanations and visualizations to help you interpret the data (Chan et al., 2022).

Recognize normal ranges and potential red flags

Knowing the normal ranges for your health metrics allows you to identify potential red flags. For instance, a consistently high blood pressure reading may indicate hypertension, while low oxygen saturation levels could signal respiratory issues (Chan et al., 2022). Consult your healthcare provider if you notice any abnormal readings.

Set health goals and track progress

Use the data from your monitoring devices to set health goals, such as achieving a target weight or maintaining stable blood glucose levels. Track your progress over time and adjust your goals as needed. Health apps often offer goal-setting features and progress-tracking tools.

Share data with healthcare providers securely

Many health apps allow you to share your data with healthcare providers securely. This can be done through app integrations, email, or cloud storage platforms. Sharing your data helps your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment plan and monitor your progress remotely.

Maximizing the Benefits of Home Health Monitoring

To get the most out of your home health monitoring system, consider these strategies for integrating it into your daily life.

Black woman gold top showing phone with glucose meter on arm

Integrate monitoring in your daily routine

Include health monitoring into your daily routine to make it a habit. For example, you can check your blood pressure while having your morning coffee or track your steps during your evening walk. Consistency ensures accurate data and better health management (Kariuki, n.d.).

Make lifestyle improvements

Use the insights from your health data to make positive lifestyle changes. For instance, if your fitness tracker shows low activity levels, you can set a goal to increase your daily steps. If your blood glucose levels are high, you can adjust your diet and exercise routine accordingly (Kariuki, n.d.).

Combine monitoring with telehealth services

Telehealth services complement home health monitoring by providing remote consultations with healthcare providers. Share your health data during these virtual visits to receive personalized advice and treatment plans. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for managing chronic conditions and reducing the need for in-person visits.

Involve your family in health-tracking

Involving family members in your health monitoring can provide additional support and motivation. Share your health goals and progress with them, and encourage them to participate in health-tracking activities. This can create a supportive environment and improve overall health outcomes.

Conclusion

Setting up a home health monitoring system is a proactive step to take charge of your well-being. Once you choose the right devices, set a consistent monitoring routine, and learn how to interpret your health data, you can gain valuable insights into your body’s needs and trends. 

Remember, home health monitoring is no substitute for professional medical advice. Use your newfound knowledge to have more informed discussions with your healthcare provider, ask questions, and make proactive decisions about your health. With the right approach, home health monitoring can lead to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.

Which health monitors and wearables do you use, and how do they help you?

References

Chan, A., Cohen, R., Robinson, M., Bhardwaj, D., Gregson, G., Jutai, J. W., Millar, J., Rincón, A. R., & Fekr, A. R. (2022). Evidence and User Considerations of Home Health Monitoring for Older Adults: Scoping Review. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth, 5(4). doi.org/10.2196/40079

Consumer HealthTech Research Report. (2023). AnalyticsIQ. Retrieved from https://analytics-iq.com/wp-content/uploads/AnalyticsIQ-Research-Report-Consumer-HealthTech.pdf

Gerke, S., Shachar, C., Chai, P. R., & Cohen, I. G. (2020). Regulatory, safety, and privacy concerns of home monitoring technologies during COVID-19. Nature Medicine, 26(8), 1176. doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-0994-1

Hicks, J. L., Althoff, T., Sosic, R., Kuhar, P., Bostjancic, B., King, A. C., Leskovec, J., & Delp, S. L. (2019). Best practices for analyzing large-scale health data from wearables and smartphone apps. Npj Digital Medicine; 2(1), 1-12. doi.org/10.1038/s41746-019-0121-1


Home Health Monitoring. (2024). Dusun. Retrieved from https://www.dusuniot.com/blog/home-health-monitoring-complete-guide/

Houser, S. H., Flite, C. A., & Foster, S. L. (2023). Privacy and Security Risk Factors Related to Telehealth Services – A Systematic Review. Perspectives in Health Information Management; 20(1). 

Imtyaz Ahmed, M., & Kannan, G. (2022). Secure and lightweight privacy preserving Internet of things integration for remote patient monitoring. Journal of King Saud University – Computer and Information Sciences; 34(9), 6895-6908. doi.org/10.1016/j.jksuci.2021.07.016

Kariuki, F. (n.d.). The Top 13 Benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring. Health Recovery Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.healthrecoverysolutions.com/blog/the-top-13-benefits-of-remote-patient-monitoring

Mason, M., Cho, Y., Rayo, J., Gong, Y., Harris, M., & Jiang, Y. (2022). Technologies for Medication Adherence Monitoring and Technology Assessment Criteria: Narrative Review. JMIR MHealth and UHealth; 10(3). doi.org/10.2196/35157

Mondal, H., & Mondal, S. (2021). Basic technology and proper usage of home health monitoring devices. Malaysian Family Physician: The Official Journal of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia;16(1), 8-14. doi.org/10.51866/rv1097

Samaan, S. (2022). Are Home ECG Monitors Reliable? GoodRx Health. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/heart/home-ecg-monitors

Sperrin, M. et al.  (2016). Who self-weighs and what do they gain from it? A retrospective comparison between smart scale users and the general population in England. Journal of Medical Internet Research; 18, e17.

Story, M. F. (2010). National Research Council (US) Committee on the Role of Human Factors in Home Health Care. The Role of Human Factors in Home Health Care: Workshop Summary. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 8, Medical Devices in Home Health Care. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK210047/

Telehealth and remote patient monitoring. (n.d.). Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/preparing-patients-for-telehealth/telehealth-and-remote-patient-monitoring

Zhang, J. & Yang, H. (2023). A Privacy-preserving Remote Heart Rate Abnormality Monitoring System. IEEE Access; 11, 97089-97098. doi:10.1109/ACCESS.2023.3312549

Top 10 Best AI Health Apps

Top 10 Best AI Health Apps

by Ree AI Health Tech

In today’s fast-paced world, staying on top of your health can be a challenge. Why not use your smartphone as your personal health assistant? Whether you’re looking to manage a chronic disease or simply keep track of your fitness goals, there’s an artificial intelligence (AI) health app for that. 

44% of smartphone users have at least one health app installed (Beckham, 2024) and use it to track and analyze their well-being. Let’s explore the top 10 best AI health apps changing the game in personal wellness management, and how to decide which one’s best for you.

Contents

What Are AI Health Monitoring Apps?

Menstruation app tracker

AI health apps are more than just fancy gadgets. They leverage machine learning (ML) algorithms to analyze data from various sources, such as wearable devices, medical history, and biometric data. 

Benefits of Using AI for Health-Tracking

Woman standing by window looking at phone

Why should you consider using an AI health app? Smartphones and smartwatches can keep track of your health using AI to analyze your health data and monitor everything from your heart rate to your sleep patterns, helping you stay on top of your health. A few more compelling reasons include access to:

An AI health app can track your physical activity, monitor your heart rate, and even analyze your sleep patterns. This info can help you understand your overall health better and make informed decisions.

With so many options available, it’s important to know what features make a great AI health app.

What to Look for in Health Apps

Medicine reminder on tablet

When choosing an AI health app, it’s essential to know what features to look for. Here are some must-have features:

  • Activity Tracking: Monitor your daily physical activity, including steps taken, calories burned, and workout intensity.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Keep track of your heart rate during different activities and rest periods.
  • Sleep Tracking: Analyze your sleep patterns to improve your sleep quality.
  • Nutrition Tracking: Log your meals and monitor your calorie intake.
  • Symptom Checker: Identify potential health issues based on your symptoms.
  • Medication Reminders: Get reminders to take your medications on time.
  • Data Privacy: Ensure your health data is secure and private.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate and use, even for non-tech-savvy users.

These features can help you manage your health more effectively and make the app a valuable tool in your daily life.

Now that we know what to look for, let’s explore some of the top AI health apps on the market.

Our Picks: The 10 Best AI Health Apps

1. MyFitnessPal

MyFitnessPal app

MyFitnessPal, developed by Under Armour, is a health app that focuses on nutrition and fitness tracking. It helps users log their meals, track their calorie intake, and monitor their physical activity.

Key Features:

  • Calorie counter
  • Nutrition tracking
  • Exercise tracking
  • Integration with other fitness apps and devices

ProsCons
Extensive food databaseAds in the free version
User-friendly interfaceSome features require a premium subscription

Use Case 

Ideal for individuals looking to manage their diet and fitness goals.

MyFitnessPal

2. Fitbit

Fitbit smartwatch

Fitbit, now owned by Google, is a well-known name in the fitness tracking industry. The app works with Fitbit wearable devices to monitor various health metrics.

Key Features:

  • Activity tracking
  • Heart rate monitoring
  • Sleep analysis
  • Personalized health insights

ProsCons
Comprehensive health-trackingRequires a Fitbit device
User-friendly interfaceSome features require a premium subscription

Use Case 

Suitable for fitness enthusiasts who want a detailed analysis of their health metrics.

Fitbit

3. Headspace

Headspace

Headspace is a mental health app that focuses on meditation and mindfulness. It helps users manage stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being.

Key Features:

  • Guided meditation sessions
  • Sleep sounds and bedtime stories
  • Stress management tools
  • Personalized recommendations

ProsCons
High-quality content Subscription required for full access
User-friendly interfaceLimited free content

Use Case 

Great for individuals looking to improve their mental health and reduce stress.

Headspace

4. Apple Health

Apple Health app

Apple Health is a built-in app for iOS devices that consolidates health data from various sources. It provides a deep overview of your health metrics.

Key Features:

  • Activity and exercise tracking
  • Heart rate monitoring
  • Sleep analysis
  • Integration with third-party apps

ProsCons
Integrates with multiple devicesOnly available on iOS
Comprehensive health dataLimited customization options

Use Case 

Perfect for iPhone users who want a centralized health-tracking solution.

Apple Health

5. Samsung Health

Samsung Health

Samsung Health is a versatile health app available for Android and iOS devices. It tracks various health metrics and offers personalized health insights.

Key Features:

  • Activity tracking
  • Heart rate monitoring
  • Sleep analysis
  • Stress management tools

ProsCons
Wide range of featuresSome features require Samsung devices
User-friendly interfaceAds in the free version

Use Case 

Ideal for Samsung device users looking for a detailed health-tracking app.

Samsung Health

6. Garmin Connect

Garmin Connect works with Garmin wearable devices to provide detailed health and fitness tracking. It shows data about your physical activity, sleep, and more.

Key Features:

  • Activity tracking
  • Heart rate monitoring
  • Sleep analysis
  • Workout planner

ProsCons
Detailed health insightsRequires a Garmin device
CustomizableSome features are complex

Use Case 

Best for athletes and fitness enthusiasts using Garmin devices.

Garmin Connect

7. Oura

Oura Ring app

Oura is the health app that comes with the Oura Ring to track various health metrics, including sleep, activity, and readiness.

Key Features:

  • Sleep tracking
  • Activity tracking
  • Readiness score
  • Personalized insights

ProsCons
Accurate sleep trackingExpensive
Comprehensive health dataRequires the Oura Ring

Use Case 

Suitable for individuals focused on improving their sleep and overall health.

Oura

8. Google Fit

Google Fit app

Google Fit is a health app developed by Google that tracks your physical activity and provides personalized health insights.

Key Features:

  • Activity tracking
  • Heart rate monitoring
  • Integration with other fitness apps
  • Personalized goals

ProsCons
Free to useLimited advanced features
Works with multiple devicesBasic interface

Use Case 

Ideal for Android users looking for a free health-tracking solution.

Google Fit

9. Noom

Noom Linkedin post

Noom is a health app that focuses on weight loss and healthy living through behavioral science. It offers personalized coaching and meal tracking.

Key Features:

  • Calorie counter
  • Nutrition tracking
  • Personalized coaching
  • Behavioral insights

ProsCons
Personalized approachSubscription required
Effective weight loss programTime-consuming

Use Case 

Great for individuals looking to lose weight and adopt healthier habits.

Noom

10. Flo

Flo app

Flo is an app designed for women’s health. It tracks menstrual cycles and ovulation, and offers personalized health insights.

Key Features:

  • Menstrual cycle tracking
  • Ovulation prediction
  • Health insights
  • Symptom checker

ProsCons
Comprehensive women’s health-trackingSome features require a subscription
User-friendly interfaceAds in the free version

Use Case 

Ideal for women looking to track their menstrual health and fertility.

Flo

With all these great options, how do you pick the right one for you? Next we’ll look at some tips to help you decide.

How to Choose the Right App for Your Needs

Person touching their fitness watch

Choosing the right AI health app can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

  • Determine Your Needs: Determine what health metrics you want to track and what features are most important to you.
  • Check Compatibility: Ensure the app is compatible with your devices and other health apps you use.
  • Read Reviews: Look for user reviews and ratings to get an idea of the app’s performance and reliability.
  • Consider Privacy: Make sure the app has robust privacy and security measures to protect your data.
  • Try Free Versions: Many apps offer free versions or trials. Test them out before committing to a subscription.

By considering these factors, you can find an app that meets your health-tracking needs and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

While these apps can be incredibly helpful, it’s crucial to consider how they handle your personal information.

Privacy and Security Considerations

A running app on phone with sneakers

When it comes to health apps, privacy and security are paramount. Here are some key considerations (ERTech, 2023):

  • Data Encryption: Ensure the app uses encryption to protect your data during transmission and storage.
  • Secure Authentication: Look for apps that offer multi-factor authentication to verify your identity.
  • Clear Privacy Policies: The app should have a transparent privacy policy that is easy to understand.
  • Data Sharing: Be cautious of apps that share your data with third parties, especially for advertising purposes.

A study in the British Medical Journal found that many health apps have serious privacy issues, including a lack of transparency in their privacy policies (Grundy et al., 2019). It’s crucial to choose apps that prioritize your data privacy and security.

As exciting as current AI health apps are, the future holds even more promise. Let’s take a look at what’s coming.

The Future of AI in Health Monitoring

fitness watch closeup

The future of AI in health monitoring looks promising. Here are some trends to watch:

  • Advanced Predictive Analysis: AI will become better at predicting health issues before they occur, leading to more proactive healthcare.
  • Integration with Telemedicine: AI health apps will work more seamlessly with telemedicine services, providing a well-rounded healthcare solution.
  • Personalized Healthcare: AI will continue to offer more personal tips tailored to individual needs and preferences.
  • Improved Data Privacy: As privacy concerns grow, AI health apps will adopt more advanced privacy-preserving techniques, such as federated learning and differential privacy (Yadav et al., 2023).

Conclusion

AI health monitoring apps are powerful tools that put wellness management at your fingertips. From tracking your sleep patterns to monitoring your heart rate, these smart applications offer personalized insights to help you make informed decisions about your health. 

Remember, while these apps are incredibly useful, they’re not a replacement for professional medical advice. Use them as a complement to regular check-ups and always consult with your healthcare provider for serious concerns. By choosing the right app and prioritizing privacy and security, you can take control of your health and well-being. 

References

Beckman, J. (2024). 30 Amazing Mobile Health Technology Statistics. Tech Report. Retrieved from https://techreport.com/statistics/software-web/mobile-healthcare-technology-statistics/

Best Practices for Healthcare Privacy in Mobile Apps. ERTech. Retrieved from https://www.ertech.io/blog/best-practices-for-healthcare-privacy-in-mobile-apps

Grundy, Q., Chiu, K., Held, F., Continella, A., Bero, L., & Holz, R. (2019). Data sharing practices of medicines related apps and the mobile ecosystem: Traffic, content, and network analysis. BMJ, 364, l920. doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l920

Yadav, N., Pandey, S., Gupta, A., Dudani, P., Gupta, S., & Rangarajan, K. Data Privacy in Healthcare: In the Era of Artificial Intelligence. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 14(6), 788-792. doi.org/10.4103/idoj.idoj_543_23

AI Health Chatbots for Patient Engagement

AI Health Chatbots for Patient Engagement

by Ree AI Health Tech

Have you ever wished you could get instant medical advice without waiting for a doctor’s appointment? Or maybe you’ve found yourself wondering about a symptom in the middle of the night? Well, you’re not alone, and that’s where AI health chatbots come in. 

The market segment for chatbots is expected to grow from $196 million in 2022 to approximately $1.2 billion by 2032 (Clark & Bailey, 2024). These digital health assistants are changing the game in healthcare, offering support and information around the clock. But what exactly are they, and how do they work? 

Contents

What Are AI Health Chatbots?

AI health chatbots are smart computer programs that help patients with health-related information and support. These virtual health assistants use advanced technologies like natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML). NLP and ML allows them to understand context and emotions in conversations, and respond to user queries in a human-like manner (Karlović, 2024).

Think of the virtual health assistant as your personal health companion to (Laranjo et al., 2018):

  • Answer basic health questions
  • Provide information about symptoms and conditions
  • Offer medication reminders
  • Guide you through simple diagnostic processes

Some popular AI health chatbots include:

Now that we understand the concept of AI health chatbots, let’s explore the various advantages they bring to healthcare.

Benefits of AI Health Chatbots

AI health chatbots have several advantages for both patients and healthcare providers. 

24/7 availability

One of the most significant advantages of AI health chatbots is their round-the-clock availability. Have a health concern at 2 AM? Your chatbot is there to help, providing instant support when you need it. 

Cost reduction

Chatbots are mostly free for patients. Some apps are covered by insurance when prescribed by a health provider (Clark & Bailey, 2024).

By handling routine inquiries and preliminary assessments, chatbots can significantly reduce healthcare costs, especially when the patient does not have to see a health provider in person. They free up health providers for more complex tasks, leading to more efficient resource allocation.

For example, GlaxoSmithKline launched 16 virtual assistants within 10 months, resulting in improved customer satisfaction and employee productivity (Winchurch, 2020).

Improved patient engagement and satisfaction

Chatbots make it easier for patients to engage with their health–even for older adults (Clark & Bailey, 2024). They provide a low-barrier way to ask questions and learn about health topics, improving overall health literacy (Bickmore et al., 2016). They’re also easier to use than a traditional patient portal or telehealth system, which saves time.

Faster triage 

In an emergency, every second counts. AI chatbots can quickly assess symptoms and help determine the urgency of a situation, potentially saving lives by ensuring rapid response to critical cases (Razzaki et al., 2018).

The benefits we’ve discussed here come from a range of key features that AI health chatbots offer. Let’s take a closer look at these capabilities.

Key Features of AI Chatbots in Healthcare

AI health chatbots come packed with features designed to support various aspects of healthcare. Some of the uses of health chatbots include (Clark & Bailey, 2024):

  • Physical wellbeing
  • Chronic conditions
  • Mental health
  • Substance use disorders
  • Pregnancy 
  • Sexual health
  • Public health

Let’s discuss some of the use cases and applications for AI health chatbots.

Appointment scheduling

AI chatbots can manage appointments, allowing patients to easily book, reschedule, or cancel appointments without human intervention. It’s usually easier than doing so in a patient portal.

Symptom checking and preliminary diagnosis

Many chatbots offer an online symptom checker. You input your symptoms, and the chatbot asks follow-up questions to provide a preliminary assessment. While this doesn’t replace a doctor’s diagnosis, it can help you decide if you need to seek immediate medical attention (Semigran et al., 2015).

Medication reminders and management

Pink pill box

Forget to take your pills? AI chatbots can send timely reminders, helping you stay on top of your medication schedule. Some even track your medication history and can alert you to potential drug interactions (Brar Prayaga et al., 2019).

Post-op care and chronic disease management

After an operation or minor surgery, a chatbot can guide the patient through the recovery process at any time, day or night. It can also answer questions about symptoms and concerns related to a chronic illness (ScienceSoft, n.d.). 

Mental health support 

AI chatbots are increasingly being used to provide mental health support. They can offer coping strategies, mood tracking, and even cognitive behavioral therapy exercises. While they don’t replace professional help, they can be a valuable first line of support (Fitzpatrick et al., 2017).

Health tracking and personalized recommendations 

Woman checking iphone with Apple watch

AI chatbots can track your health data over time by integrating with wearable devices and apps. They can then provide personalized health recommendations based on your activity levels, sleep patterns, and other health metrics (Stein & Brooks, 2017).

Healthcare systems can successfully implement AI chatbots by following a careful approach, as we’ll discuss next.

How to Integrate AI Chatbots in Healthcare Systems

Hand holding phone with AI health chatbot conversation

Integrating AI health chatbots into existing healthcare systems requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a roadmap for successful implementation (Palanica et al., 2019 & Nadarzynski et al., 2019):

  1. Assess Needs and Set Goals: Before implementing a chatbot, healthcare providers should clearly define what they hope to achieve. Is the goal to reduce wait times, improve patient engagement, or streamline triage processes?
  1. Choose the Right Solution: Not all chatbots are created equal. Select a solution that aligns with your goals and integrates well with your existing systems.
  1. Ensure Data Security: Implement robust security measures to protect patient data. This includes encryption, secure authentication processes, and regular security audits.
  1. Train Healthcare Providers: It’s crucial to train your staff on how to work alongside these AI systems. They should understand the chatbot’s capabilities and limitations.
  1. Educate Patients: Clear communication with patients about the role and capabilities of the chatbot is essential. Set realistic expectations and provide guidance on how to use the system effectively.
  1. Start Small and Scale: Begin with a pilot program, gather feedback, and make improvements before rolling out the chatbot more broadly.
  1. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: Regularly assess the chatbot’s performance. Are patients finding it helpful? Are there common issues or misunderstandings? Use this data to continually refine and improve the system.
  1. Measure Impact: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of the chatbot. This might include metrics like patient satisfaction scores, reduction in wait times, or cost savings.

While AI health chatbots offer impressive features and benefits, it’s important to acknowledge and address the challenges that come with using them in healthcare.

Addressing Concerns and Limitations of AI Health Chatbots

While AI health chatbots offer numerous benefits, they also come with their fair share of challenges and limitations. It’s important to be aware of these as we continue to integrate these technologies into our healthcare systems.

Accuracy concerns 

One of the primary concerns with AI health chatbots is the potential for misdiagnosis. While these systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, they’re not infallible. A chatbot might misinterpret symptoms or fail to consider important contextual information that a human doctor would catch (Fraser et al., 2018).

Another reason chatbots could share inaccurate information is that AI health chatbots use fixed datasets, which may not include the latest medical info. Unlike doctors who can access current data, chatbots might give outdated advice on health topics (Clark & Bailey, 2024).

Data privacy and security 

Hacker in a red hoodie

Healthcare data is highly sensitive, and the use of AI chatbots raises important questions about data privacy. How is patient data stored and protected? Who has access to the information shared with these chatbots? These are critical issues that need to be addressed to ensure patient trust and comply with regulations like HIPAA (Luxton, 2019).

Federated learning is a new way to train AI models that keeps data private. It lets different groups work together on an AI model without sharing their actual data. Instead, each group trains the model on their own computers using their own data. They only share updates to the model, not the data itself. Hospitals and researchers can team up to create better AI models while keeping patient information safe and private (Sun & Zhou, 2023). 

Ethical considerations 

The use of AI in healthcare raises several ethical questions. For instance, how do we ensure that these systems don’t perpetuate biases in healthcare? There’s also the question of accountability – who’s responsible if a chatbot provides incorrect advice that leads to harm (Vayena et al., 2018)?

Bias in AI Algorithms

Illustration of a smiling chatbot

AI chatbots in healthcare raise concerns about bias and fairness. If the data used to train these chatbots isn’t diverse or has built-in biases, the chatbots might make unfair decisions. This could lead to some groups getting worse healthcare.

Bias can come from many sources, like choosing the wrong data features or having unbalanced data. Sometimes, chatbots might learn the training data too well and can’t handle new situations.

To fix these problems, we need to be aware of possible biases, work to prevent them, and keep checking chatbots after they’re in use. This helps ensure AI chatbots benefit everyone equally in healthcare (Sun & Zhou, 2023). 

Integration challenges 

Implementing AI chatbots into existing healthcare systems isn’t always straightforward. There can be technical challenges in integrating chatbots with electronic health records (EHRs) and other healthcare IT systems. Ensuring seamless data flow while maintaining security is a complex task (Miner et al., 2020).

Patient trust 

Building and maintaining patient trust is crucial for the success of AI health chatbots. Some patients may be hesitant to share personal health information with a machine, preferring the human touch of traditional healthcare interactions.

Trustworthy AI (TAI) helps explain how AI chatbots work, balancing complex math with user-friendly results. It’s important for building trust in AI systems. While progress has been made, more work is needed to make AI chatbots more transparent and trustworthy (Sun & Zhou, 2023).

Doctors and nurses do more than diagnose–they offer comfort and build trust with patients. AI chatbots can’t replace this human touch or handle complex medical issues that need deep expertise.

It’s not all doom and gloom! Exciting trends are shaping the future of AI health chatbot technology.

AI chatbots are useful medical tools, especially where healthcare access is limited. The combo of AI efficiency and human empathy can improve healthcare. The future likely involves doctors handling complex cases and emotional care, with chatbots supporting them, depending on tech advances, acceptance, and regulations (Altamimi et al., 2023). Here are some exciting trends to watch.

Advanced NLP 

Future chatbots will likely have an even better understanding of context and nuance in language. They might be able to detect subtle cues in a patient’s language that could indicate underlying health issues.

Integration with IoT and wearables 

man checking fitness watch with cell phone

As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands in healthcare, chatbots will likely become more integrated with wearable devices and smart home technology. Imagine a chatbot that can access real-time data from your smartwatch to provide more accurate health advice.

Personalized medicine 

AI chatbots could play a crucial role in the move towards personalized medicine. By analyzing vast amounts of patient data, they could help tailor treatment plans to individual genetic profiles and lifestyle factors.

Enhanced diagnostic capabilities 

While current chatbots are limited to preliminary assessments, future versions might have more advanced diagnostic capabilities. They could potentially analyze images or audio recordings to aid in diagnosis.

Support for clinical trials 

AI chatbots could streamline the process of clinical trials by helping to recruit suitable participants, monitor adherence to trial protocols, and collect data.

Conclusion

AI health chatbots are making healthcare easier to access, more personal, and more efficient. They offer 24/7 support, lower costs, and get patients more involved in their health. But there are still issues to solve, like making sure they’re accurate, keeping data private, and fitting them into current healthcare systems.

As tech improves, these chatbots will get smarter and play a bigger role in healthcare. It’s important for everyone – doctors and patients – to keep up with these changes.

Whether you work in healthcare or you’re just curious, now’s the time to try out these chatbots. By staying informed, we can use technology to make healthcare better, without losing the human connection.

Have you used AI health chatbots before? What are your thoughts on them? 

References

AI-Powered Chatbots for Healthcare. (n.d.) ScienceSoft. Retrieved from https://www.scnsoft.com/healthcare/chatbots

Altamimi, I., Altamimi, A., Alhumimidi, A. S., Altamimi, A., & Temsah, H. (2023). Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbots in Medicine: A Supplement, Not a Substitute. Cureus, 15(6). doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40922

Bickmore, T. W., Utami, D., Matsuyama, R., & Paasche-Orlow, M. K. (2016). Improving access to online health information with conversational agents: a randomized controlled experiment. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 18(1), e1.

Brar Prayaga, R., Jeong, E. W., Feger, E., Noble, H. K., Kmiec, M., & Prayaga, R. S. (2019). Improving refill adherence in Medicare patients with tailored and interactive mobile text messaging: pilot study. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 7(1), e11429.

Clark, M. & Bailey, S. (2024). Chatbots in Health Care: Connecting Patients to Information. CADTH Horizon Scans. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK602381/

Fitzpatrick, K. K., Darcy, A., & Vierhile, M. (2017). Delivering cognitive behavior therapy to young adults with symptoms of depression and anxiety using a fully automated conversational agent (Woebot): a randomized controlled trial. JMIR Mental Health, 4(2), e19.

Fraser, H., Coiera, E., & Wong, D. (2018). Safety of patient-facing digital symptom checkers. The Lancet, 392(10161), 2263-2264.

Karlović, M. (2024). 14 ways chatbots can elevate the healthcare experience. Infobip. Retrieved from https://www.infobip.com/blog/healthcare-ai-chatbot-examples

Laranjo, L., Dunn, A. G., Tong, H. L., Kocaballi, A. B., Chen, J., Bashir, R., … & Coiera, E. (2018). Conversational agents in healthcare: a systematic review. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 25(9), 1248-1258.

Luxton, D. D. (2019). Ethical implications of conversational agents in global public health. Bulletin of the World Health Organization, 97(4), 254.

Miner, A. S., Laranjo, L., & Kocaballi, A. B. (2020). Chatbots in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. NPJ Digital Medicine, 3(1), 1-4.

Nadarzynski, T., Miles, O., Cowie, A., & Ridge, D. (2019). Acceptability of artificial intelligence (AI)-led chatbot services in healthcare: A mixed-methods study. Digital Health, 5, 2055207619871808.

Palanica, A., Flaschner, P., Thommandram, A., Li, M., & Fossat, Y. (2019). Physicians’ Perceptions of Chatbots in Health Care: Cross-Sectional Web-Based Survey. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 21(4), e12887.

Razzaki, S., Baker, A., Perov, Y., Middleton, K., Baxter, J., Mullarkey, D., … & Majeed, A. (2018). A comparative study of artificial intelligence and human doctors for the purpose of triage and diagnosis. arXiv preprint arXiv:1806.10698.

Semigran, H. L., Linder, J. A., Gidengil, C., & Mehrotra, A. (2015). Evaluation of symptom checkers for self diagnosis and triage: audit study. BMJ, 351, h3480.

Stein, N., & Brooks, K. (2017). A fully automated conversational artificial intelligence for weight loss: longitudinal observational study among overweight and obese adults. JMIR Diabetes, 2(2), e28.

Sun, G., & Zhou, H. (2023). AI in healthcare: Navigating opportunities and challenges in digital communication. Frontiers in Digital Health, 5. doi.org/10.3389/fdgth.2023.1291132

Vayena, E., Blasimme, A., & Cohen, I. G. (2018). Machine learning in medicine: Addressing ethical challenges. PLoS Medicine, 15(11), e1002689.

Winchurch, E. (2020). How GlaxoSmithKline launched 16 virtual assistants in 10 months with watsonx Assistant. IBM. Retrieved from https://www.ibm.com/products/watsonx-assistant/healthcare