Not too long ago, Amazon’s initial ventures into the healthcare sector were examined. This move situated the tech giant alongside traditional industry players. Amazon’s initial emphasis was obvious: disruption. Their intent to transform the healthcare landscape was clear, from obtaining drug distribution licenses in over 10 US states, acquiring the startup PillPack, to the launch of Amazon Pharmacy and Amazon Care.
Amazon’s Evolving Healthcare Strategies
Fast forward to the present, and the landscape seems to have changed significantly. While Amazon’s healthcare ambitions remain robust, the strategies and focus points have evolved. The termination of Amazon Care, the acquisition of One Medical, and the growing concerns over data privacy are just some of the significant shifts that have occurred in the last two years. Let’s delve into Amazon’s present healthcare initiatives.
The Acquisition of One Medical
In a strategic move to strengthen its position in the healthcare sector, Amazon acquired One Medical for an impressive $3.9 billion sum. This acquisition added a significant physical presence to Amazon’s expanding healthcare footprint.
One Medical currently owns and operates more than 220 “locations” (clinics, doctor offices) in nearly 20 US metropolitan areas. The number is still growing. The synergy between Amazon and One Medical is noticeable, considering the significant 40% of Americans who lack a primary care provider.
There is fierce competition among tech and retail giants for establishing footholds in the primary care sector. Major players such as Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS Health have also made substantial investments.
Ending Amazon Care
Amazon’s healthcare journey, while ambitious, has not been without setbacks. The most recent one being the abrupt discontinuation of Amazon Care, its primary care service that combined virtual and in-person health consultations.
Despite the rapid expansion and internal promotion as a significant employee benefit, the service was suddenly terminated. This unexpected decision left employees and the public stunned.
Expansion of Virtual Health Services through Amazon Clinic
Just 8 months after its launch, Amazon announced the nationwide rollout of Amazon Clinic. Available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., Amazon Clinic provides users with 24/7 access to third-party healthcare providers directly via Amazon’s website and mobile app.
This virtual service offers telehealth treatment for a range of common conditions. While Amazon Clinic currently does not accept insurance for its services, customers can preview the cost before initiating a visit. Prescribed medications might be covered by individual insurance plans.
Privacy concerns with Amazon’s Healthcare Initiatives
The acquisition of One Medical by a tech giant with vast data reach across various sectors has triggered a wave of concerns regarding patient privacy and medical ethics. As Amazon’s reach extends from reading preferences to now potentially encompassing intimate health records, the boundaries between commercial interests and patient privacy seem to blur.
Democratic Senators Peter Welch and Elizabeth Warren have expressed their apprehensions. They’ve voiced concerns about Amazon Clinic’s data practices, specifically the potential “harvesting” of patient health data. This has led to speculation about whether such data could be used for targeted advertising, particularly given Amazon’s extensive commercial interests.
Generative AI in Clinical Documentation
Keeping pace with the times, Amazon has, of course, entered the generative AI realm as well. Amazon’s Web Services (AWS) has rolled out “HealthScribe”, a pioneering clinical documentation service rooted in generative AI. This platform facilitates the creation of clinical applications by utilizing speech recognition and AI to transcribe patient encounters, discern critical details, and craft concise summaries suitable for electronic health record (EHR) integration.
Alexa’s Foray into Senior Care
Augmenting its digital health footprint, Amazon has launched “Alexa Smart Properties for Senior Living”. This initiative integrates Alexa devices into assisted living and care facilities. It’s tailored to cater to the needs of elderly residents and their caregivers, enabling care providers to efficiently manage and service a fleet of Echo devices. From communicating via voice and video calls to controlling smart home features like lighting or thermostats, Alexa is enhancing the resident experience and amplifying their sense of independence.
The Continued Pursuit
Amazon’s relentless pursuit of healthcare has been marked by numerous challenges. However, the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic became a pivotal moment for the company, leading to the more strategic and coordinated health initiatives seen today.
While Amazon’s healthcare endeavors are more coordinated than in previous years, the company’s chief medical officers believe it still has a long way to go before becoming a major disruptor in the massive $4 trillion healthcare industry. With the recent acquisition of One Medical and continuous efforts to improve its pharmacy services, Amazon aims to focus on reaching customers directly and locally.
Is it Beneficial? Or is it Problematic?
The amalgamation of services and the convergence of data streams within Amazon’s ecosystem presents a double-edged sword. On one hand, there’s undeniable promise: the sheer efficiency derived from integrating various services, the potential for more affordable healthcare options, and the strides towards a more holistic, encompassing care model. Yet, the other side paints a cautionary tale. The concentration of such vast amounts of personal data within a single corporate entity raises significant concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does holistic actually mean?
Holistic refers to being whole-based. Holistic means seeing the whole picture and not just parts of it. This can be difficult because we have become accustomed to seeing things in their entirety.
We often think of grey as black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.
So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. Consider it from every side.
You should try to see it all as one. Is there a way for its elements to interact?
And if you find a problem, ask yourself why this particular element is causing trouble. Don’t forget about the effects of any change that you make.
What Is Alternative Medicine?
It’s a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people to be informed consumers and actively participate in improving their health.
Alternative medicine refers to any system of diagnosis and treatment that does not employ allopathic (conventional) medical practices.
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Does it have Evidence-Based Basis?
While the evidence base in complementary and alternative medicine remains incomplete, there are many good reasons to choose them. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. As part of a holistic approach, they might look for complementary and alternate medicines. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. If you aren’t sure if a particular treatment is safe or effective, consult your doctor. It could save you money and time in the long run.
What is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to treating patients. They may incorporate western medicine into their treatment, as well as traditional methods such acupuncture or herbs.
They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. The patient should feel better following treatment.
Doctors should not just focus on treating the disease, but also helping to prevent future ones.
The term holistic refers to a person who considers all aspects in their life.
Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healing. It focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms. Holistic medicine is a way to help people heal from illness. It also promotes good health and helps prevent disease.
Holistic medicine uses natural remedies, such as herbs, homeopathy and acupuncture, instead of surgery and drugs.
Holistic medicine includes lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, massage, and bodywork techniques.
Holistic medicine is sometimes called integrative medicine. This refers to the way that holistic medicine integrates all aspects (physical, mental and spiritual) into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.
Holistic doctors believe in the possibility of multiple causes. Holistic doctors instead look at the whole person, including genetic factors and environmental influences, lifestyle choices, personal habits, and lifestyle choices.
Holistic practitioners are more concerned with the mind, emotions, or spirit than they are about the body.
Holistic physicians consult with their patients to help them determine the best option for them.
What is the difference in holistic medicine and alternative medicines?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person – mind, body, spirit, and soul. It looks at all aspects of an individual’s health, including physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and environmental factors often overlooked by conventional medicine. Alternative medicine addresses specific conditions, such as asthma, allergies, arthritis, and other ailments.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
webmd.com
How To
What to look for in a qualified holistic doctor?
How do you find a holistic doctor?
Doctors who specialize in their chosen field are the best. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. This means doctors need to be able treat patients holistically. They must also know how to treat each patient as an individual and not just their symptoms. A holistic doctor should have a deep understanding of holistic health.
A doctor must have a solid understanding of holistic health and complementary and alternate therapies (CAM). This includes acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy and yoga.
Holistic practitioners should also be capable of diagnosing your condition and explaining the available treatments to you so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment options.
It is also important to ask if the doctor is certified by professional organizations, such as the American Holistic Medical Association (NCBCTM) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). NBOHMCA certifies in many areas such as naturopathic medicine (naturopathy), acupuncture and homeopathy, clinical nutrition (herbalalism), and aromatherapy.
Check out our directory to find a holistic practitioner near you. If you don’t see a practitioner listed, you might be able to look online for one.
Check with your local hospital to see if they offer holistic health care.
For books and information on holistic healthcare, visit your library.
–
——————————————————————————————————————————————
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.
——————————————————————————————————————————————
By: Andrea Koncz
Title: Unravelling Amazon’s Impact on Healthcare: A Tale of Innovation, Data Concerns, and Health Tech Aspirations
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/amazon-in-healthcare-disruption-data-nightmares-and-digital-health-dreams
Published Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What does holistic actually mean?
Holistic refers to being whole-based. Holistic means seeing the whole picture and not just parts of it. This can be difficult because we have become accustomed to seeing things in their entirety.
We often think of grey as black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.
So, when working on a project, try to see everything from different angles. Consider it from every side.
You should try to see it all as one. Is there a way for its elements to interact?
And if you find a problem, ask yourself why this particular element is causing trouble. Don’t forget about the effects of any change that you make.
What Is Alternative Medicine?
It’s a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It encourages people to be informed consumers and actively participate in improving their health.
Alternative medicine refers to any system of diagnosis and treatment that does not employ allopathic (conventional) medical practices.
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Does it have Evidence-Based Basis?
While the evidence base in complementary and alternative medicine remains incomplete, there are many good reasons to choose them. You might have tried traditional treatments and found them ineffective. Or you may be looking for an alternative treatment because it has more benefits than conventional care. As part of a holistic approach, they might look for complementary and alternate medicines. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. If you aren’t sure if a particular treatment is safe or effective, consult your doctor. It could save you money and time in the long run.
What is holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to treating patients. They may incorporate western medicine into their treatment, as well as traditional methods such acupuncture or herbs.
They treat the illness, not just the symptoms. The patient should feel better following treatment.
Doctors should not just focus on treating the disease, but also helping to prevent future ones.
The term holistic refers to a person who considers all aspects in their life.
Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healing. It focuses on the whole person and not just the symptoms. Holistic medicine is a way to help people heal from illness. It also promotes good health and helps prevent disease.
Holistic medicine uses natural remedies, such as herbs, homeopathy and acupuncture, instead of surgery and drugs.
Holistic medicine includes lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, massage, and bodywork techniques.
Holistic medicine is sometimes called integrative medicine. This refers to the way that holistic medicine integrates all aspects (physical, mental and spiritual) into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.
Holistic doctors believe in the possibility of multiple causes. Holistic doctors instead look at the whole person, including genetic factors and environmental influences, lifestyle choices, personal habits, and lifestyle choices.
Holistic practitioners are more concerned with the mind, emotions, or spirit than they are about the body.
Holistic physicians consult with their patients to help them determine the best option for them.
What is the difference in holistic medicine and alternative medicines?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person – mind, body, spirit, and soul. It looks at all aspects of an individual’s health, including physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and environmental factors often overlooked by conventional medicine. Alternative medicine addresses specific conditions, such as asthma, allergies, arthritis, and other ailments.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- 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)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine – PubMed
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
webmd.com
How To
What to look for in a qualified holistic doctor?
How do you find a holistic doctor?
Doctors who specialize in their chosen field are the best. We are referring to holistic medicine in this instance. This means doctors need to be able treat patients holistically. They must also know how to treat each patient as an individual and not just their symptoms. A holistic doctor should have a deep understanding of holistic health.
A doctor must have a solid understanding of holistic health and complementary and alternate therapies (CAM). This includes acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy and yoga.
Holistic practitioners should also be capable of diagnosing your condition and explaining the available treatments to you so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment options.
It is also important to ask if the doctor is certified by professional organizations, such as the American Holistic Medical Association (NCBCTM) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). NBOHMCA certifies in many areas such as naturopathic medicine (naturopathy), acupuncture and homeopathy, clinical nutrition (herbalalism), and aromatherapy.
Check out our directory to find a holistic practitioner near you. If you don’t see a practitioner listed, you might be able to look online for one.
Check with your local hospital to see if they offer holistic health care.
For books and information on holistic healthcare, visit your library.
