5 ways big data is changing the healthcare industry for the better

Technology is making it possible for amazing strides to be achieved in the healthcare industry. In fact, there are many ways in which big data is innovating healthcare overall.

For example, McKinsey reports that “Kaiser Permanente has fully implemented a new computer system, HealthConnect, to ensure data exchange across all medical facilities and promote the use of electronic health records. The integrated system has improved outcomes in cardiovascular disease and achieved an estimated $1 billion in savings from reduced office visits and lab tests.”

This is just one example of how big data is helping to innovate healthcare. The following are just a few areas that big data is being implemented to innovate healthcare. Which one are you most intrigued by?

Clinical trials

When you’re not feeling well and need medication prescribed to you, chances are the medication you receive will be chosen with the help of Big Data. You see, there are thousands of clinical trials that take place all across the world. In these trials, medical professionals are able to study the side effects and benefits of certain medications. In fact, data-sharing between pharmaceutical giants is what has made it possible to have huge health breakthroughs in the way depression is handled and the way cancer is treated.

Meditation apps

Stress and anxiety can have a dire impact on your health. They can keep you from getting the proper rest you need and can elevate your heart rate to unhealthy levels. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided meditations, as well as independent ones. They also have a variety of lengths available, so you can still meditate even if you only have a minute or two to spare. This helps you breathe better and levels out your heart rate.

Wearable devices

In today’s age, you can track everything from how fast your heart is beating to how much exercise you get. You can even track the number of calories you ate that day. Because of this, many people are able to live a healthier lifestyle. They can take control of their health by having the vital information they need, right at their fingertips.

Sleep apps

It’s no secret that the way our brain functions is heavily impacted by how good of a night’s rest we get. Fortunately, there are tons of apps on the market today that make it possible for you to sleep better. You can even keep track of how well you rested and can set an alarm clock that will wake you when you’re in your lightest mode of sleep. This way, you don’t wake up feeling groggy.

Privacy and security

When it comes to privacy and security, few things matter more than your medical records. It’s one of the most sacred things we keep private. It’s nobody’s business what our cholesterol number is or whether or not we’ve been battling things like depression or insomnia. This is why it’s the Big Data advancements in privacy and security that give us cause for celebration. With these new advancements in software security, it’s now nearly impossible for thieves to gain access to your records. What a welcome form of technology this is.

The way we live and how long we live is being heavily influenced by technological advances. It’s good to know that Big Data is changing the way we look at healthcare. Soon, we will hopefully be able to reduce the amount of people who suffer from preventable health problems. If Big Data is any indication, we’re nearly there.