Healthcare is currently being revolutionized by wearable technology, with research estimating that 40 percent of digital health systems migrate from trial runs to full scale programs.

Health technology has grown from simple step counters to advanced heart rate monitors and sleep mentoring devices, with wearables dominating the fitness field and moving its way to healthcare. Various wearable technologies such as the Fitbit and Garmin enhances user’s fitness, but focus now shifts towards health, with consumers being interested in a more detailed account of their wellbeing.

As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands, the ability for users to take control of healthcare related tasks enters the roam of possibility. Apps are starting to use more complex programming, for example, giving users the ability to communicate directly with healthcare providers, full medical records being stored on smart devices and even in-built diagnosis and treatment programs.

Wearable technology also gives people independence, especially those that suffer with medical conditions such as dementia. Healthcare focused wearables allow self-sufficiency, with small tracking devices being embedded in accessories which can help track patients in emergency situations. Patients can also have wearables which remind them to take their medications on time. Those that suffer with chronic diseases such as diabetes can also benefit from wearables, with the ability to monitor glucose levels in real time. CGM systems provide high levels of accuracy in glucose monitoring, with information every five minutes, and up to 288 readings a day.

As patients and healthcare become more aware of the benefits of modern technology, the comfort in using wearables to take control of health has started to increase. Wearable technology is proving to be advantageous for both patients and healthcare providers, allowing more control, reliability and easy access to better wellbeing.