Does digital health or artificial intelligence improve health equity and/or health equity? This is the question I am asked most frequently. The answer, despite its apparent simplicity, is not a simple “yes” or “no”. This is a long analysis. Here is the TLDR: Yes, digital health will improve health equity. It will take some time, and it may even temporarily widen this gap during the transition period. It is important to realize that digital health and health equity are not just a technical issue.
The long-term question that we must answer is whether the introduction of technology into healthcare as part of the cultural revolution will increase or decrease access to healthcare for people.
The introduction of technology, theoretically, should improve access to healthcare. It automates repetitive tasks and expedites patient onboarding (making it easier and faster for them to get help from the moment they have a problem).
The caveat is that only those with access to technology will be able to benefit from these benefits. The health equity gap can be viewed as a technology gap. This tech gap in turn is a wealth gap and an education deficit. We are therefore faced with a social issue that is profound.
We are working together on the first step: creating a world in which health equity is addressed by technology. I think this is the most efficient approach. But I/we do not have the ability to influence the second component.
In my earlier analysis on digital health equity I defined health equality as the situation where everyone is able to reach their full potential in terms of health and well-being.
Imagine that digital health eliminates the zip code lottery
In an ideal world, everyone would live in one where their health was not determined by their zip code, wealth, or education. This equitable health utopia is primarily based on technology, specifically digital health and AI. Sounds fascinating, doesn’t it?
However, turning this vision into reality can be a difficult task. The role of technology in healthcare is both a boon and a bane. Let’s look at this paradox in more detail.
We can do a lot to improve health equity through technology. However, we cannot control the wealth and education gap, which are prerequisites for effective adoption of technology.
No matter how sophisticated the features of the latest smartwatches are, if they cost more than a person’s monthly wage or annual salary, then the watch is useless. The early alarm promise will never be a reality.
What is the best way to approach this challenge?
You can see the complexity of this issue if you look at how different actors view this phenomenon and their solutions. The stakeholder’s point of view and suggestions can be very different depending on their position.
McKinsey is one example of a consulting firm that analyses this issue from a business perspective, providing accurate insights and useful tips for companies dealing with this issue. These insights do not, however, mitigate the difficulties faced by those without the means to afford technology or services.
World Health Organization (WHO), identifies this as a problem of digital health literacy.
This is true, but we must take a step away, because people need technology to use them, and their digital health literacy (or lack thereof) makes no difference. The WHO has come to a conclusion I find interesting: “A focus on digital approaches could inadvertently increase existing inequities if they are not addressed. This includes inequalities of access, use, and engagement with digital technologies.”
This chapter of the textbook also focuses on the tech-side – creating the same vacuum. We are leaving people behind without technology.
As a response, several frameworks for digital health equity have been developed, including the one published in Nature Digital Medicine 2022. These frameworks highlight the digital determinants, which are important in amplifying and mitigating disparities in health in the digital age. A person without reliable internet access or a device will not be able to benefit from the digital revolution in health, no matter how well designed or patient-centric the application may be.
Some projects attempt to bridge the digital gap. The Australian Digital Health Agency has funded the Digital Health Literacy Initiative, which has trained 232 digital health coaches and provided them with resources. Community organizations, through their “Health My Way”, teach digital health literacy, improving digital inclusion. In the end, 80% participants reported an increase in digital health literacy and confidence.
The stakes are high, both in terms of lives and GDP percentage points.
Health inequity has serious socioeconomic consequences. A report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 2019 estimated that poor health costs the U.S. Economy about $3.2 trillion annually due to premature deaths and loss of productivity potential caused by diseases. The report estimates that poor health causes a 15% reduction in global GDP each year.
Equalizing access to and the quality of healthcare has a positive impact on the economy as a whole. Digital technology can help close the gap in health equity by simplifying medical processes and removing barriers to accessing healthcare.
According to statistics, groups that are underrepresented or disadvantaged (such as rural areas, minorities, women, LGBTQs, and the poor) have less access than others to digital health’s cutting-edge technologies. The gap between the two isn’t closing but rather widening.
Digital health can help these groups that are underrepresented, but not only them. This could help solve problems such as the “diagnostic Odyssey,” which is the lengthy, sometimes arduous journey individuals with rare diseases take before they find the right specialist. This odyssey, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders in the United States, takes an average of five years.
Money, goodwill and money are needed in policies
We can say that digital health and AI have the potential to significantly improve health equity. This is not just a technology issue. Although these advantages may not be available to all, over time they will become more mainstream, just as many other breakthrough technologies have done throughout history, from washing machines to mobiles.
It’s also important to recognize a potential pitfall. If the main motivation of policymakers/insurance companies and other stakeholders for increased digitization of healthcare is to cut costs and withdraw resources freed up by technology adoption, we will end up in a place where access isn’t improved for anyone. What is the result? The result?
Here are some of my main takeaways.
- Digital health can improve health equity for all, but it is only available to those who have access to technology.
- This is not the mission of or audience for the digital health revolution.
- We must increase digital equity to leverage digital health for health equity. This is a task that policymakers and politicians should take on.
- Even if we meet all the previous conditions, if we do not redirect the human resource and capacity liberated by digital healthcare and AI to improving care and choose instead to cut positions in order to reduce operational costs, then the system will see no improvement.
The article Health Equity in the AI and Digital Health Era: Promise Or Peril? The Medical Futurist published the first article on Health Equity in the AI and Digital Health Era: Promise or Peril?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between traditional and holistic medicine?
Traditional medicine concentrates on the treatment of symptoms, while holistic medicine addresses the entire person. Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just one aspect of a patient’s health.
Traditional medicine treats certain organs, systems, or diseases (e.g. the brain), while holistic medicines consider all aspects and the entire body. It also examines the effects of lifestyle choices on overall wellbeing.
How safe is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicines are safe because they are not harmful drugs but natural remedies for people who have been using them for centuries.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Holistic medicines are also used by millions of people around the world who suffer from various kinds of diseases. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many different forms of naturopathy, including Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Traditional Native American Medicine, and Functional Medicine.
It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” because it complements conventional medicine, not supplants it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic physicians are licensed by their respective provinces, while CAM practitioners are selfregulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
- Naturopodists receive individualized care according to the unique needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
- The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia issues licenses to Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
Statistics
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
doi.org
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
webmd.com
How To
What can a holistic physician do that a traditional practitioner cannot?
A holistic doctor provides a wider range of services than a traditional doctor, including a nutritionist, massage therapist, acupuncturist, homeopath, naturopath, etc.
Holistic doctors work with patients holistically. They look at each person’s lifestyle and environment, and treat the root causes of any health problems, rather than treating the symptoms. This helps them to identify the root cause of any health issues and help with long-term wellness. Holistic doctors employ natural remedies, such as essential oils and herbs, to treat illness. They also provide nutritional supplements and advice for healthy living.
Holistic doctors also offer therapies such as acupuncture and reflexology, reiki or shiatsu, yoga, meditation or craniosacral treatment, as well as hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy.
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If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Andrea Koncz
Title: Health Equity In The AI And Digital Health Era: Promise or Peril?
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/health-equity-in-the-ai-and-digital-health-era-promise-or-peril
Published Date: Tue, 30 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between traditional and holistic medicine?
Traditional medicine concentrates on the treatment of symptoms, while holistic medicine addresses the entire person. Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just one aspect of a patient’s health.
Traditional medicine treats certain organs, systems, or diseases (e.g. the brain), while holistic medicines consider all aspects and the entire body. It also examines the effects of lifestyle choices on overall wellbeing.
How safe is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicines are safe because they are not harmful drugs but natural remedies for people who have been using them for centuries.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Holistic medicines are also used by millions of people around the world who suffer from various kinds of diseases. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many different forms of naturopathy, including Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Traditional Native American Medicine, and Functional Medicine.
It is important to remember that some CAM modalities overlap slightly with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. Naturopaths, however, tend to recommend lifestyle changes rather than prescription medication.
Naturopathy is often called “complementary” because it complements conventional medicine, not supplants it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic physicians are licensed by their respective provinces, while CAM practitioners are selfregulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
- Naturopodists receive individualized care according to the unique needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
- The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia issues licenses to Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.
Statistics
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
doi.org
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
webmd.com
How To
What can a holistic physician do that a traditional practitioner cannot?
A holistic doctor provides a wider range of services than a traditional doctor, including a nutritionist, massage therapist, acupuncturist, homeopath, naturopath, etc.
Holistic doctors work with patients holistically. They look at each person’s lifestyle and environment, and treat the root causes of any health problems, rather than treating the symptoms. This helps them to identify the root cause of any health issues and help with long-term wellness. Holistic doctors employ natural remedies, such as essential oils and herbs, to treat illness. They also provide nutritional supplements and advice for healthy living.
Holistic doctors also offer therapies such as acupuncture and reflexology, reiki or shiatsu, yoga, meditation or craniosacral treatment, as well as hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy.
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