The future of medicine looks brighter thanks to digital health. Digital health has made it possible for people to access better care thanks to technological advances that make it easier to get them. Medical breakthroughs and research have made it possible to eradicate deadly diseases and make others manageable. However, the same developments that bring healthcare into the 21st Century also pose a risk to the field.
There are alarming signs that many don’t take seriously, such as the loss of privacy due to hacked medical devices and bioterrorism. We must still have a conversation about these issues and prepare all stakeholders to address them. We have compiled a list of 10 most dangerous effects that technology can cause in the digital age.
1. Regulating adaptive AI algorithms
An adaptive artificial intelligence (AI), or an artificial intelligence that adapts to new information, is one that adapts itself on the fly. It would be able, for instance, to recommend more frequent blood tests in a population with a high rate of diabetes. If it notices that this population is more likely to have cardiac problems, it will recommend a cardiovascular exam.
But, these algorithms rely upon existing medical data fraught with inherent biases span styling=”font-weight 400 ;”>. The harmful biases of adaptive AI, such as discriminating on the basis of one’s gender and ethnicity, will only be reinforced by using such data. To reduce these risks, regulators must develop new regulatory approaches in order to ensure that adaptive AI algorithms are used in healthcare facilities.
2. Hacking medical devices remotely
Medical implants and devices with wireless connectivity are becoming more common, whether they’re used to run diagnostics or monitor metrics. This also means they are susceptible to hacking, which could lead to fatalities for patients.
In 2011, a researcher demonstrated that Medtronic insulin pumps could be hacked to deliver fatal doses of insulin to diabetic patients. Other hackers can also hijack pacemakers via Bluetooth and compromise X-ray data. They can also remotely reconfigure CT scans in order to alter radiation exposure. Are regulators making sure that private companies offer secure technology as more patients and healthcare organizations adopt these solutions? What can be done to ensure that wearable devices are not hacked remotely? Patients deserve safer options. Companies that develop such technologies need to ensure they are safe. Users should also be vigilant when using them.
3. Privacy breaches via and on direct-to consumer devices and services
It is difficult to understand the relationship between privacy and digital health adoption. Digital health is not possible without compromising some of our privacy. Tools such as AI and health sensors need to have access to personal data in order to deliver personalised and individual results. How secure is such data if the companies that make these tools have access? The $300 million deal was signed by GSK and 23andMe, a popular DNA testing company that sells direct to consumers. This deal leveraged 23andMe’s vast genetic resources and was possible because its customers were unaware that such a deal existed.
The digital health era is complex and multifactorial, and privacy and security concerns are multifactorial. As more advanced technologies are integrated into the field, these issues will not get easier. Every stakeholder in healthcare must consider the changes that the digital age will bring to the industry. We have created an e-book to help you answer these questions.
4. Ransomware attacks against hospitals
The most prevalent cyber threats in healthcare are ransomwarespan styling=”font-weight 400 ;”>. These hackers infect IT systems using malware or digital viruses to decrypt important files. This can paralyse entire infrastructures because the information is not accessible until a ransom has been paid, often through cryptocurrency.
The WannaCry attack on 61 NHS hospitals in 2017 was one of the most prominent. This caused cancellations of operations and medical appointments, lost internet connectivity in hospitals, and diverted patients from emergency rooms even one week later. In subsequent years, this trend continued. Cybersecurity incidents involving patient information reached all-time highs every year. Experts predict that this trend will continue into 2023.
Healthcare is not immune to cyber threats. Cybercrime is a serious threat to healthcare. Patients should expect more security of their data. Management and medical staff should also take this seriously.
5. Technology that supports self-diagnosis
Doctors are concerned that patients might google their symptoms and treatment information, thinking they may mistakenly think they have more serious conditions than they actually have. Patients are also being warned by researchers about the potential for patients to go to hospitals after receiving smartwatch notifications regarding abnormal ECG readings. Many of these are not clinically relevant. Soon, however, patients will be able to access more metrics at their homes from smartwatch notifications about abnormal ECG readings. Many of these are not clinically actionable.
These advanced chatbots can offer medical advice and help with misinterpretation. Were we able to convince patients to stop over-burdening hospitals? This can be avoided by proper guidance from doctors. Patients can better understand the readings from their smart sensors. Authorities can regulate these services so patients know which companies they can trust. This will help to avoid unnecessary hospital visits.
6. Cyberterrorism and digital health technologies for bioterrorism
Bioterrorism is also thriving because of the ease and improved medical solutions provided by digital health technology. We talked about how remote hacking can affect medical devices and ransomware attacks could prove fatal to some patients.
Elon Musk is now attempting to implant a “Fitbit” in your skull with Neuralink. Meanwhile, NaNotics is creating nanorobots that “pick up” the molecules that cause diseases and ageing. Are we equipped to stop bioterrorists hacking into these advanced technologies to gain direct control of our health?
7. AI is not being tested in a clinical setting.
There are often headlines about AI’s remarkable abilities in healthcare. These results are often obtained from labs using select datasets or ideal settings that aren’t necessarily reflective of real clinical environments. Google learned it the hard way.
The company’s medical researchers praised the AI tool’s ability to screen for diabetic retinalopathy (DR) using images . This tool was able to detect DR in 90% of casesspan style=”font weight: 400 ;”>. DR is a leading cause of vision loss in the world. Early detection can help prevent further complications. Google’s AI did not perform as well in practice than it did on paper. They encountered many problems when they were used in Thailand by nurses. They experienced internet connectivity problems, and sometimes the scan quality didn’t meet certain standards. The AI didn’t produce a result. Sometimes, the nurses had to spend more time editing images that the algorithm did not want to analyse.
8. In simulating reality, synthetic health data may not be 100% accurate
Artificial intelligence (AI) is used to create synthetic data that looks like the real thing. It is used for two reasons: 1. it doesn’t exist enough real-world data and 2. it doesn’t make sense to use sensitive real-world data. It can be used to feed any algorithm that requires large amounts of data in order to learn new patterns or develop prediction capabilities. A variety of industries and segments use synthetic data, including medicine, self-driving cars, security, robotics and fraud protection, as well as insurance models and the military.
Any dataset that we create will, however, be imperfect in some way. There will be biases that we don’t know about. It won’t include important variables that we have either forgotten about or don’t know are there. Even in the best cases, it will only be a snapshot of one moment in a given scenario. These synthetic datasets are imperfect and machine learning and deep-learning algorithms will likely come up with conclusions that are less true in real life.
Synthetic data is much cheaper and easier to obtain than messy real-world data. What happens when decisions that affect large numbers of people or entire societies are made on the basis of synthetic data? This is particularly worrying given the challenges facing “truth” in today’s world. Alternative truths that are based on data can be used to support decisions that affect societies, such as healthcare funding and insurance models. This could have disastrous consequences.
9. Hospitals use face recognition cameras
Facial recognition technology combines image analysis with deep neural networks to interpret facial patterns. It can detect a variety of medical conditions. The functional algorithm uses existing databases to compare features and produce a result. It is a promising tool for healthcare, from diagnosing rare genetic conditions to extracting information about facial blood flow.
Clearview AI, a controversial U.S. company, created a facial recognition database using social media photos of unsuspecting people. It pitched its platform to government officials to help track those infected by SARS-CoV-2. But, using technology from a company with questionable intentions can pose new privacy risks. What will they do to the images? They will be given to law enforcement officers for surveillance. This could further fuel racial discrimination.
10. Dr Big Brother: Health insurance
Health insurance companies can now assess the needs of applicants to insurance coverage by using fitness trackers, direct to consumer genetic tests, and health sensors. If a genetic test shows that a person is more likely to develop ovarian cancer than others, the insurance company may be able to subsidise these tests and provide them more often.
But, having access to personal data can also be a double-edged weapon. This could create a dystopian, Orwellian scenario. In order to provide insurance, companies could request access to wearable data from customers. They might also charge higher premiums for customers who don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle. And they could discriminate against applicants based upon their genetic risk. To address these biases, the U.S. Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Law was created. But what if insurance companies change it to meet lobby pressure?
These and other dangers are only some of the many that the digital health environment presents. We will be more likely to encounter them in the future. Let’s discuss these issues at work, home and in public. We can then prepare for the benefits technology has to offer, and keep the dangers to a minimum.
We will never forget ” Primum nocere “!
Written By Dr. Bertalan mesko & Dr. Pranavsingh Dhunnoo
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The Medical Futurist published the post TOP 10 Dangers of Digital Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between holistic medicine and alternative medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and soul. Holistic medicine examines every aspect of a person’s health. It also considers spiritual, physical, and environmental factors that may be overlooked by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, arthritis, and others.
Where can I get more information on holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, a form of holistic medicine, focuses on the entire person and not on a single part. It considers all aspects of a patient’s life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not individual symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.
Holistic medicine also includes treatments for chronic conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis.
There are many kinds of holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What does a holistic medicine doctor do?
A holistic doctor is one who treats patients holistically. They might use traditional techniques such as herbs or acupuncture, but they also integrate them into western medicine.
They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. The patient should feel better after treatment.
The doctor should not only focus on curing the disease but also help prevent future illnesses.
Holistic refers to all aspects of someone’s life.
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare: Is it Evidence-based?
Although evidence for complementary and other medicine is still being developed, there are many benefits to these treatments. They may have tried standard treatments but found them ineffective. They may also want to try alternative therapies as they believe they offer better results than conventional care. Alternative and complementary medicine may be an option. This is part of a holistic approach. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any doubts about whether the treatment is working. It will save you time and money over the long-term.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Millions of people suffer from various illnesses use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy. Chiropractic care, herbal therapies, massage therapy. yoga. meditation. Biofeedback. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative medicines are very popular because they’re often cheaper and better for you than traditional treatments. Many patients have died due to side effects or allergic reactions after using these treatments. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements, for instance, aren’t controlled like pharmaceuticals. This makes it easy to take too many vitamins. Some alternative remedies can contain toxic chemicals, which is even worse.
Statistics
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% 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)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
doi.org
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
How To
What should you look for in a holistic doctor?
How do I find a good holistic physician?
Only those who are experts in their field can be the best doctors. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. This means that doctors should be able to treat their patients holistically. It is important for them to understand how to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. It is important for doctors to understand holistic health. This is why holistic doctors are so valuable.
The doctor should be able to understand holistic health as well as complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Holistic healthcare practitioners should also have the ability to diagnose your condition, and then explain the options available so you can make an educated decision about your treatment options.
Ask if your doctor is certified by professional organizations such as the American Holistic Medical Association or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. NBOHMCA is a certification body that offers certifications in many areas of medicine, including naturopathic and acupuncture as well homeopathy, clinical nutrition, herbs, and aromatherapy.
If you are looking for a holistic practitioner in your area, check out our directory. If one is not listed, you can search online to find a holistic doctor close by.
Check with your local hospital to see if they offer holistic health care.
For books and information on holistic healthcare, visit your library.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
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: berci.mesko
Title: TOP 10 Dangers Of Digital Health
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/bioethical-issues
Published Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between holistic medicine and alternative medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person: body, mind, spirit, and soul. Holistic medicine examines every aspect of a person’s health. It also considers spiritual, physical, and environmental factors that may be overlooked by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, arthritis, and others.
Where can I get more information on holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, a form of holistic medicine, focuses on the entire person and not on a single part. It considers all aspects of a patient’s life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not individual symptoms. Holistic medicine does not focus on treating the disease, but rather on healing.
Holistic medicine also includes treatments for chronic conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis.
There are many kinds of holistic medicine.
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Ayurveda
- Chiropractic medicine
- Homeopathy
- Herbalism
- Naturopathy
- Nutrition
- Osteopathic medicine
- Vedic medicine
- Yoga
What does a holistic medicine doctor do?
A holistic doctor is one who treats patients holistically. They might use traditional techniques such as herbs or acupuncture, but they also integrate them into western medicine.
They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. The patient should feel better after treatment.
The doctor should not only focus on curing the disease but also help prevent future illnesses.
Holistic refers to all aspects of someone’s life.
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare: Is it Evidence-based?
Although evidence for complementary and other medicine is still being developed, there are many benefits to these treatments. They may have tried standard treatments but found them ineffective. They may also want to try alternative therapies as they believe they offer better results than conventional care. Alternative and complementary medicine may be an option. This is part of a holistic approach. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any doubts about whether the treatment is working. It will save you time and money over the long-term.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.
They have been shown in many cases to treat conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, asthma.
Millions of people suffer from various illnesses use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy. Chiropractic care, herbal therapies, massage therapy. yoga. meditation. Biofeedback. These therapies treat the whole person rather than just treating the symptoms.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative medicines are very popular because they’re often cheaper and better for you than traditional treatments. Many patients have died due to side effects or allergic reactions after using these treatments. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements, for instance, aren’t controlled like pharmaceuticals. This makes it easy to take too many vitamins. Some alternative remedies can contain toxic chemicals, which is even worse.
Statistics
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% 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)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
doi.org
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING and TENSION-TYPE HeADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
How To
What should you look for in a holistic doctor?
How do I find a good holistic physician?
Only those who are experts in their field can be the best doctors. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. This means that doctors should be able to treat their patients holistically. It is important for them to understand how to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. It is important for doctors to understand holistic health. This is why holistic doctors are so valuable.
The doctor should be able to understand holistic health as well as complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Holistic healthcare practitioners should also have the ability to diagnose your condition, and then explain the options available so you can make an educated decision about your treatment options.
Ask if your doctor is certified by professional organizations such as the American Holistic Medical Association or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. NBOHMCA is a certification body that offers certifications in many areas of medicine, including naturopathic and acupuncture as well homeopathy, clinical nutrition, herbs, and aromatherapy.
If you are looking for a holistic practitioner in your area, check out our directory. If one is not listed, you can search online to find a holistic doctor close by.
Check with your local hospital to see if they offer holistic health care.
For books and information on holistic healthcare, visit your library.
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