Over the past few decades the rapid advances in technology have significantly benefited patients. These advancements have not only enabled patients to receive a higher quality of care, but it has also served the purpose of dispelling some of the apprehension.
Before the newer technology became available physicians were restricted, to a certain extent, in their ability to make a thorough diagnosis. Some of the equipment available to them at that time was somewhat cumbersome and limited in the amount of information that it could provide. It served the purpose it was intended for but did not compare to the technology that is available today.
There was a point in time where individuals viewed a visit to the doctor’s office and possible hospitalization as a last resort. Patients did not have the resources that are available today. And were of the mindset that they could use various home remedies before paying the physician a visit. Unfamiliarity with X-ray and other equipment also played a role.
Technology today is so sophisticated and the various pieces of equipment provide such a wealth of information that physicians are able to better identify a problem. As a result of the gathered information they can make a more informed plan of treatment.
Due to these advances patients are more receptive to treatment for two reasons. The equipment no longer intimidates most patients because it will more accurately diagnose a problem. And if surgery is required the actual procedure as a result of advanced technology, can be done in such a way that the period of recovery can be greatly reduced.
Some patients shy away from taking advantage of this technology. In some instances an insurance company may not cover the procedure. In others they may not have coverage and are unable to pay for the treatment.
While having a test or procedure may be costly the benefits of enabling yourself with a higher quality of life outweigh any immediate concerns.
There are a number of resources and wellness education is becoming more available in the community. Taking advantage of these resources will only make you more informed.
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I agree that people today are more receptive and comfortable with technology compared to the past. I think this may have something to do with our society. This generation is more technology-oriented in general. This includes healthcare as well as areas outside of healthcare with computers and cell phones as two major examples. I think it is just a shift that most of the world is a part of and I would say it has its pros and cons like anything. However, I am generally more in favor of the use of advanced technology because I think the pros outweigh the cons in most cases.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is important to use technology in health care, and that for people to use it, they need to understand it. Things are getting better as far as feeling comfortable with technology, but there is still a long way to go, especially with older and underprivileged people. Things are advancing so fast that is it hard for patients to keep up with everything and understand the purpose of all the different types of scans and treatments possible.
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