What's Happening?
Wearable technology, such as Apple Watches and Fitbits, is increasingly prevalent in U.S. households, with nearly one-third of Americans using these devices. A survey by the National Institutes of Health
indicates that over 80% of users are willing to share their data with healthcare providers. In response, health systems are investing in wearable device programs to gain continuous insights into patient health, monitoring metrics like heart rate and sleep patterns. However, the integration of these devices presents challenges, including the need for new technology infrastructure and potential strain on clinical teams. The FDA's recent decision to limit regulations on health-promoting wearables has boosted the market, encouraging further investment. Newsweek is hosting a webinar to discuss the return on investment for health systems using wearables, featuring experts from WHOOP, Northwell Health, and Withings.
Why It's Important?
The adoption of wearable technology in healthcare could significantly impact patient care and operational efficiency. By providing continuous health data, wearables can improve patient outcomes and enable more personalized care. However, the influx of data requires health systems to adapt their infrastructure and staffing models, potentially increasing operational complexity. The FDA's regulatory stance may accelerate the adoption of wearables, influencing market dynamics and investment strategies. Health systems must weigh the clinical benefits against the financial and operational costs to determine the viability of these programs. The upcoming Newsweek webinar aims to address these challenges and opportunities, providing insights into the strategic implementation of wearable technology in healthcare.
What's Next?
As health systems consider expanding wearable device programs, they must evaluate the clinical and financial returns for different patient populations. The Newsweek webinar will explore how health systems can manage continuous data streams without overwhelming clinicians and the necessary investments in technology and staffing. The discussion will also cover how reimbursement models and value-based care influence the business case for wearables. Health leaders are encouraged to participate in the webinar to gain insights into optimizing wearable technology initiatives. Future events in Newsweek's healthcare series will continue to address critical issues, including financial pressures and technological advancements.
