In 2024, the convergence of the health and technology industries brought about significant changes, largely driven by the increased utilization of artificial intelligence (AI). From headphones that serve as hearing aids to AI voice assistance being used on the House floor, the advancements made last year capitalized on technological progress made during the COVID-19 pandemic and opened up new possibilities within the realm of digital health. Here are the key highlights of digital health in 2024:
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare:
AI, particularly generative AI, was recognized by the healthcare community as having a major impact on the industry in 2024. René Quashie, the vice president of digital health at the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), emphasized the transformative potential of gen AI tools for both clinicians and consumers. Notably, the increased use of AI-generated scribes by medical professionals during patient consultations was highlighted as a significant advancement. These ambient AI scribes, utilizing machine learning and natural language processing, efficiently summarize conversations without recording audio, saving physicians an average of one hour per day. This innovation streamlines the note-taking process and enhances clinician-patient engagement, showcasing the growing acceptance of AI in healthcare.
AI Beyond Traditional Medical Settings:
AI applications in healthcare extended to unconventional settings, such as Capitol Hill. Former Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-Va.) garnered attention for using an AI text-to-speech app to deliver remarks on the House floor, replicating her voice pre-diagnosis of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). This innovation empowered individuals facing health challenges, emphasizing that abilities transcend limitations. Tech giants like Microsoft also leveraged AI to enhance user experiences for those with health impairments. Through collaborations with institutions like the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands, Microsoft’s AI service, Copilot, adapted art descriptions to aid individuals with limited vision in understanding and appreciating artwork. These descriptions provide nuanced insights beyond the conventional details, enhancing inclusivity for millions of individuals with visual impairments.
Overall, the integration of AI in healthcare continues to revolutionize the industry, showcasing its potential to drive innovation, improve patient care, and foster accessibility across diverse healthcare settings.
Be My Eyes is a company that connects individuals who are visually impaired with sighted volunteers and companies. AI developers have come under scrutiny for potential biases in machine learning models. The year 2024 saw a surge in wearable technology, including smart watches, glasses, and headphones, providing real-time data and trends for consumers.
Apple made advancements in digital health with its AirPods Pro serving as a clinical-grade hearing device. The headphones offer a hearing test and can function as a professional-grade hearing aid for iPhone and iPad users. Additionally, Apple’s smartwatch models introduced new health features, such as monitoring sleep apnea and detecting abnormal heart rhythms.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, partnered with Be My Eyes to enhance digital health accessibility through Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. These glasses allow blind or visually impaired users to connect with sighted volunteers for real-time assistance. Digital therapeutics, software-based devices used in mental health care, have shown significant growth, offering treatment for conditions like anxiety and depression.
2024 is expected to bring further advancements in digital health technology, with a focus on expanding accessibility and treatment options for individuals in need.
There is still more ground to cover in the new year, according to experts who have emphasized the need to ensure that all populations have access to digital tools. These tools range from wearable devices to AI-powered systems and digital therapeutics. “If you live in a more urban environment, you’re more likely to interact with technology in a more significant way than rural individuals,” stated Quashie. “Those with higher income and education levels are also more likely to engage with technology compared to others.”
In the past year, some companies have made efforts to expand digital therapeutics beyond mental health treatment. Experts predict that 2025 will be a critical year to see how many of these initiatives receive approval. For example, Pfizer has introduced a new digital application for migraine management.
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