Technological advancement has been one of the most significant sources of change in our world, and it affects many aspects of our lives, including healthcare. People with disabilities can be more likely to face barriers to accessing adequate healthcare, but technology is helping to remove them.
Improving access to healthcare
Access to affordable transportation is a challenge faced by many people with disabilities, which can prevent people from getting to healthcare providers. Those who need to see specialists may face even more significant barriers if there are few or no providers in their area. Exceptional circumstances—such as those created by the COVID-19 pandemic—may lead to fewer options. Telehealth is one technology that can provide people with disabilities access to healthcare providers that they may not otherwise have been able to consult with. Though it doesn’t solve the issue of seeing to the needs of patients who might need in-person care, it can make a massive difference in preventive care and health monitoring.
Improving the accessibility of health information
Adequate preventive care is key to maintaining health and wellbeing, and being well educated on how to monitor one’s health is crucial to this. But, when health information is available in limited formats, it is likely not accessible to all. The internet and mobile technologies have proven to be essential tools in improving access to information. Online data can be provided in text that can be interpreted by screen readers, in audio formats, and ASL videos. People can also use digital services to access interpreters or other assistance to improve communication during appointments to ensure they leave consultations fully informed.
Improving health monitoring
Certain conditions may require consistent monitoring and, sometimes, sharing of one’s health data to ensure well-being, which could be challenging for some. Modern devices and applications are helping people overcome this by making it easier to collect critical health. Wearable devices such as smartwatches and heart rate monitors can track biometrics without much active effort required of the user, and other smart devices like blood pressure and asthma monitors facilitate tracking at home.
There are also a variety of health tracking apps available that can help people track medications, symptoms, and other personal health information, and even apps that can serve as medical IDs in case of emergencies. Maintaining a reliable personal record of their health information can significantly improve treatment and outcomes for someone who has specialized care needs.
Advances in assistive technologies
Assistive technology has come a long way and continues to improve, and these technologies can have a very positive impact on people's lives with disabilities. Things like mobility and sensory devices can help individuals remain independent, overcome barriers and enjoy an overall better quality of life. There can be a direct effect on one’s health, as well. Getting around can help people remain active and avoid isolation, both of which are important in maintaining good physical and mental health.
Devices such as hearing aids and cochlear implants help prevent cognitive decline in those who experience hearing loss later in life and who don’t know sign language. Having access to devices that support wellbeing provides another option for people with disabilities to take ownership over their health.
Helping healthcare providers
Anything that helps healthcare providers do their job better can improve healthcare for people with disabilities. Today, healthcare providers have access to devices, applications, and digital networks that can assist in procedures, diagnosis, communication, information management, and more.
The development happening with healthcare technology is ongoing, and many existing options still have improvements to make when it comes to accessibility. But with consistent improvements and advocacy, the future of healthcare for people with disabilities has the potential to see even more significant improvements through the development and use of novel technologies.
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