We are growing older by the day, which significantly impacts our society and healthcare system. Ideally, we would like to continue living at home for as long as possible, but the need for healthcare is inevitable. Additionally, we are increasingly measuring various aspects of our own health, which can lead to mental uncertainties.
The Netherlands is known for its welfare state, where almost no one is left behind. We provide financial assistance to those in need, and our healthcare system is designed to ensure that everyone has the right to healthcare. Currently, there is a linear growth mindset – the more healthcare is needed, the more hands at the bedside are required. However, this approach is becoming unsustainable due to the impending aging population, placing even more pressure on the healthcare system.
It’s time to think and work differently. New questions have to be addressed. How does society view healthcare? Should our focus be on prevention or treatment? How can technology support the growing demand for healthcare? What role does data sharing play? How will algorithms/A.I. contribute to diagnosis and recommendations? How can personally collected data (such as data from smartwatches) be utilized? These are just a few of the questions we should be asking ourselves.
We must find innovations that can scale healthcare and make it more affordable.
We need insights into our health to gain more control over prevention. Big Tech companies are capitalizing on preventive care by releasing a multitude of trackers and apps. The real challenge lies in combining the collected personal data with medical data in hospitals. However, these two “markets” do not seem to trust each other. Innovations like a “data exchange” can bridge this gap and use the data without sharing it directly.
The rapid increase and adoption of tracking apps and devices gives us a sense of having more control over our health. But it also means increased awareness of potential health issues, which can lead to uncertainty. Will this lead to better physical health in return for worse mental health?
Another domain where we see emerging innovations is in digital healthcare services. As we see more care specializations becoming centralized, travel distances will increase. Additionally, one can question whether every medical inquiry requires a visit to the hospital. How long will it take before remote healthcare becomes a standard service?
Robotics also play a role in this transformation. Healthcare robots like SARA and Zora assist in various healthcare processes. Robots can also combat loneliness among individuals. Although it may seem somewhat impersonal, why not embrace it if it works? Other technological innovations, for example, help individuals with dementia maintain a structured daily routine through projections and sound cues.
We also should remember what a patient or their family can do for themselves. Not everything needs to be categorized as healthcare; sometimes, other individuals can assist with tasks without healthcare professionals. However, the impact of informal care can be significant for those providing care. Balancing responsibilities for one’s family and parents can take a toll on one’s life. How will society help this growing group of informal caregivers with their challenges?
In summary, we must reform healthcare to make it affordable, scalable, and dignified. This is a goal that hospitals, healthcare institutions, and companies are actively working towards. Are you in