Transforming medicine via digital innovation

Abstract

The lack of plasticity of the medical profession and health care system in the face of new technology and information is about to be challenged on two major fronts in digital medicine: wireless technologies and genomics. These two areas have been characterized by unprecedented innovation and discovery at a breakneck pace. Whereas the 2000s saw the introduction of digital life-style devices, the 2010s will probably be known as the era of digital medical devices. These devices have exceptional promise for changing the future of medicine because of their ability to produce exquisitely detailed individual biological and physiological data.

Figures

Fig. 1. Airstrip Technologies remote continuous vital sign monitoring via the iPhone

This software delivers real-time data about the vital signs (including blood pressure, heart rhythm and rate, blood oxygen level, and body temperature) of any patient who is in a hospital intensive care unit to a doctor’s or nurse’s smart phone.