Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:
- Compare and contrast the innovative technologies used in healthcare research.
- Discuss the possible societal implications of technologies used in healthcare research (policy/legal, ethical, cultural).
- Explain current issues/challenges associated with a current or emerging technology with applications in healthcare research.
Module ReadingsRequired Readings:
- Shortliffe, E.H., & Cimino, J.J. (2014). Biomedical informatics: Computer applications in healthcare and biomedicine. (Links to an external site.)Springer.
- Chapter 26: Clinical Research Informatics
- Panesar, A. (2019). Machine Learning and AI for Healthcare : Big Data for Improved Health Outcomes (Links to an external site.). Apress.
- Chapter 1: What is Artificial Intelligence
- Chapter 6: Ethics of Intelligence (Optional – but a great resource for ethical issues)
- Pankajavalli, P. B., & Karthick, G. S. (2020). Incorporating the Internet of Things in healthcare applications and wearable devices (Links to an external site.). IGI Global.
- Chapter 14: Big Data, Data Mining, and Data Analytics in IoT-based Healthcare Applications
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In today’s modern era, technology plays a prominent role in healthcare research, and it has made many innovations in the medical field. The use of different technologies, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and the internet of things, has made it possible to improve patient outcomes, streamline healthcare processes, and expand our understanding of biological systems. However, along with the benefits, the use of these innovative technologies has posed new challenges, including ethical, legal, and cultural implications. In this module, we will focus on discussing the innovative technologies used in healthcare research, their societal implications, and the current issues and challenges associated with emerging technologies in healthcare research.
Question 1: Compare and contrast the innovative technologies used in healthcare research.
Answer:
Healthcare research has witnessed a rapid surge in the use of innovative technologies that have the potential to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare operations. Some of the notable technologies used in healthcare research include:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is one of the most promising technologies in healthcare research. It is the ability of computers or machines to perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence, such as visual perception, decision-making, and speech recognition. AI is applied in healthcare research to improve diagnostics, drug discovery, and treatment plans.
2. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT refers to a network of physical devices that can be connected to the internet, allowing them to exchange data. In healthcare research, IoT can be used to monitor vital signs, track patients’ locations, and optimize hospital operations.
3. Robotics: Robotics is the use of machines to perform tasks that would typically require human labor. In healthcare research, robots are used for surgery, rehabilitation, and patient care.
Overall, the use of innovative technologies in healthcare research has revolutionized the field and allowed for improved patient outcomes and streamlined healthcare processes.
Question 2: Discuss the possible societal implications of technologies used in healthcare research (policy/legal, ethical, cultural).
Answer:
The use of technologies in healthcare research has posed new challenges in various societal implications, such as policy/legal, ethical, and cultural. Some of these implications include:
1. Policy/Legal: The use of innovative technologies in healthcare research poses new challenges to policy and legal frameworks, including privacy concerns, data protection, and intellectual property rights.
2. Ethical: The use of innovative technologies in healthcare research has introduced new ethical challenges, including the potential for bias, the risk of dehumanizing care, and issues surrounding informed consent.
3. Cultural: The use of technology in healthcare research has resulted in cultural challenges such as language barriers, the potential for technology to replace human interaction in healthcare, and limited access to healthcare technology in low-income communities.
Overall, the integration of technology in healthcare research requires careful consideration of the various societal implications to ensure that the advancements made in healthcare research are ethical, culturally sensitive, and comply with legal and policy frameworks.
Question 3: Explain current issues/challenges associated with a current or emerging technology with applications in healthcare research.
Answer:
One current issue/challenge associated with a current or emerging technology in healthcare research is the ethical implications surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). AI algorithms lack transparency and understanding, which poses risks of bias and discrimination in healthcare. Additionally, AI requires vast amounts of data, which presents privacy concerns for patients whose data is being used. Moreover, the impact of AI on employment in the healthcare sector remains uncertain.
To overcome these challenges, healthcare organizations must establish ethical frameworks for the use of AI in healthcare research. This includes designing AI algorithms based on transparent datasets, upholding patients’ privacy rights, and conducting regular audits to prevent bias and discrimination in healthcare research. Additionally, healthcare organizations must provide appropriate training to healthcare practitioners on the ethical implications of AI, as well as how to properly utilize machines to optimize their impact on patient outcomes while still preserving the human touch in healthcare delivery.
