Technology in Healthcare: Leveraging Search Navigation

In our fast-paced world, technology is integral to nearly every facet of life, including healthcare. According to the Journal of Health Management, healthcare technology encompasses "any activity that improves healthcare either through enhancing its efficacy, efficiency, and safety or by reducing its cost."

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In recent years, technology has dramatically reshaped the healthcare landscape, and this trend is set to continue, especially with the introduction of several new artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. Several notable technological advancements have driven healthcare innovation, including:

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• Artificial Intelligence: AI's transformative potential in healthcare is vast, from predictive analytics to personalized treatment plans, with innovative solutions like Viz.ai® One intelligent care coordination

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• Telehealth: Virtual care platforms, such as TimelyCare enable patients to connect with providers from the comfort of their homes, making healthcare more accessible and convenient.

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• Digital Care Solutions: Applications like Omada Health for managing chronic conditions and Sword Health for customized digital physical therapy programs empower patients to take charge of their health effectively and conveniently.

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• The Internet of Things (IoT): More data than ever is being leveraged by the applications, devices, and wearables, like Apple watch and Oura Ring, that we interact with daily, enhancing personal health management and medical research.

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• Healthcare Search Navigation Tools: Platforms such as Faros Health ENLIGHT provide patients with a transparent way to compare providers, care options, and pricing, simplifying the decision-making process.

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These technologies aim to improve access to care, support healthcare transparency, enhance efficiency, and assist patients in navigating their care journey, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

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Despite these advancements, the National Institutes of Health notes there is still a burden on patients in that they are "required to identify an adequate entry point to the health care system, to orientate themselves within a multitude of organizations, to maneuver through the system, and to find the right place for their own problems."

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Leveraging Search Navigation

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Healthcare search navigation tools exist to help patients explore their care options more effectively while improving access to care. While these tools may vary in features and functionality, their primary goal is to enable patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. A robust search navigation platform can simplify the process of identifying entry points and empower patients to take an active role in their care.

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Providing a comprehensive search tool is not just a convenience but a necessity. As part of the Transparency in Coverage rule, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requires employers to offer a tool that includes all shoppable items or services with estimates for out-of-pocket costs.

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Beyond compliance, the complexity and lack of transparency in the healthcare landscape frustrates many patients. Informed decisions are only possible when patients have a holistic view of their care options, including provider quality, cost for the entire episode of care, and insights into patient experiences. While many platforms offer some of these components, Faros Health's ENLIGHT platform integrates these essential elements along with education to provide a comprehensive solution.

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Looking Ahead

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Today's technological innovations hold significant promise. As we look to the future, leveraging these technologies will be crucial in transforming healthcare, enhancing patient care, and lowering costs. The journey ahead is filled with opportunities to innovate and make meaningful strides in providing better, more efficient, and accessible healthcare for all.

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Faros Health ENLIGHT

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To learn more about Faros Health's search navigation platform, ENLIGHT, schedule a demo here.

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