I’ve long followed digital health’s advancements, intrigued by its impact on individual and population health. Having experienced healthcare inefficiencies firsthand, I’ve seen how technologies like Electronic Health Records (EHRs) initially created chaos due to their complexity and cost but have since shown promise in improving care.

While working with the Visiting Nurses Association of America (VNAA) and American Nurses Association (ANA), I gained an appreciation for nurses’ crucial role in healthcare. They often determine which technologies would be most beneficial. For example, EHRs could streamline processes in individual practices, but large systems require effective communication across departments. Technological advances remain vital to healthcare.

In 2016, at Mercy Medical System’s “bed-less” hospital, nurses provided care remotely through virtual systems, which allowed them more time with patients and personal balance. This innovative setup demonstrated the potential of technology to improve care and efficiency.

At Mercy’s Innovation Lab, I saw technologies like a digital “band aid” to monitor wound infections. This device could significantly impact patient care, especially in managing infections like MRSA. Advances like this hold promise for better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

Additionally, while at ANA, I helped hospitals pursue Magnet® and Pathway to Excellence® certifications, which signify high-quality care and help attract skilled nurses, as nursing turnover is costly for hospitals.

Healthcare innovation is also advancing globally. In countries like Saudi Arabia and Dubai, new hospitals integrate cutting-edge technology and systems to streamline operations and enhance patient care. However, the need for proper staffing, training, and workflows to ensure quality care are paramount.

On a personal level, I benefited from robotic surgery, which offered fewer complications and faster recovery. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of prevention and shifting from a reactive “sick-care” system to one that focuses on preventing chronic disease.

Many U.S. companies are advancing personal health monitoring through wearable devices, helping individuals track their exercise, diet, sleep, and mental health. These technologies empower individuals to take charge of their health.

My move to the American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM) deepened my interest in precision medicine and the role of AI in improving the patient experience. Technologies like VR hold great potential, not just for medical education, but for raising awareness about Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) as we did at ACPM.

Since the pandemic, AI has disrupted healthcare by offering new ways to analyze clinical data and reduce the labor-intensive process of trial reviews. Investors are eager to fund breakthroughs addressing rare diseases or creating personalized vaccines.

Recently, I joined a project offering individualized care to women in menopause via AI-powered text messages. This innovation exemplifies the future of personalized healthcare and could help address primary care shortages if used consistently and equitably.

Digital health has come a long way, and its potential to improve health outcomes is immense. I’m excited to see what future innovations will bring.