This year has been transformative for digital health, bringing ground-breaking innovations that continue to redefine patient care and healthcare delivery. As the year draws to a close, here are my top five trending topics that, in my opinion, have defined 2024 in the digital health space.
- AI’s Growing Influence in Healthcare
This year, AI has moved from being a buzzword to becoming a game-changer in healthcare innovation. From supporting diagnostics to streamlining patient engagement, AI is increasingly finding it’s place across the sector.
Two standout examples? The NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Integrated Care System’s AI tool, which supports pathologists in breast cancer diagnostics, cutting waiting times and improving accuracy. Then there’s “Kirsty,” NHS Lothian’s AI-powered physiotherapist helping patients with back pain—bringing expert advice directly to those in need.
In mental health, the AI assistant “Limbic” is helping streamline referrals for NHS Talking Therapies, while tools like “Lola”, a chatbot at Warwickshire Wheelchair Service, are improving patient communication. These tools are proof that AI is no longer a “future” concept—it’s here, driving real change today.
- NHS App Expansion
The NHS App has become a lifeline for over 34 million people, making healthcare more accessible than ever. It’s no longer just for booking appointments or ordering prescriptions anymore; the app is evolving into a powerful tool for chronic illness management and self-care. With the upcoming NHS 10-year plan to digitise healthcare further, this app is set to play an even more significant role, moving closer to becoming the nation’s digital front door for healthcare access.
- Expansion of Virtual Healthcare Services
Increased expansion of virtual healthcare services and remote patient monitoring has made it possible for individuals to receive hospital-level care from the comfort of their homes, whether managing chronic illnesses or recovering from surgery. By integrating data from wearables and mobile devices, these platforms give clinicians the tools they need to monitor patient health in real-time. The result? More accessible care for patients and reduced pressure on overstretched healthcare services.
- Social Media as a Health Engagement Tool
I was genuinely impressed by Berkshire Healthcare NHS Trust’s creative use of TikTok. Engaging younger audiences on sensitive topics through relatable content has proven highly effective.
This trend highlights the power of meeting people where they are—leveraging platforms like TikTok to break down barriers and provide critical health education to hard-to-reach groups. It’s a reminder that innovation isn’t just about technology but also about understanding your audience.
- Virtual Wards
Virtual wards have continued to scale across the UK, offering a safe and effective alternative to hospital admissions. Particularly beneficial for managing heart failure and chronic lung disease, these wards are saving bed days and reducing hospital stays, helping the NHS operate more efficiently while delivering patient-centred care.
2024 has shown us the power of innovation to transform healthcare. As we step into 2025, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead—and eager to see how these trends will continue to evolve. What’s been your biggest takeaway from 2024’s digital health trends?
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