Humans like tools, and since health is one of humanity’s perpetual preoccupations, humans particularly like tools related to health. In recent decades, the digital revolution has undoubtedly been the most important development in this area. Computing systems initially introduced to make administration more efficient were soon being used to help with the diagnostic process, to find more effective treatments and to support surgical procedures, and much more. This work, Handbook on Smart Health, examines a wide range of examples of the technology being developed everywhere on our planet which concerns our health. It includes content which addresses different levels of the complex systems used to deliver health, beginning with the more general background of the area, and goes on to cover different strategies of delivery, the diverse infrastructure – hardware and software, algorithms and applications – and the interaction between technology and society. Given the gradual continuous increase in control, which brings both more benefits for our health and higher risks if something goes wrong, this use of technology is becoming increasingly controversial, and alongside the positive uses of digital tools in healthcare there have also been some catastrophic failures. All this is compounded by a legal structure constantly trying to play catch-up with innovation.
The book addresses all these topics from various angles, providing a holistic update for a wide range of professionals, innovators and decision-makers, and documenting the foundation upon which more innovation can be created.
This publication provides an invaluable guide to all aspects of smart health, and will be of interest to healthcare professionals and organizations working in healthcare innovation everywhere.
