What You Should Know:
– The healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation driven by advancements in digital health technology. A recent EY Health Pulse Survey reveals a wave of positive changes, with members experiencing greater control, easier access to information, and improved satisfaction thanks to these advancements.
– With a focus on personalization, empowered patients, and data-driven decision-making, digital health tools are revolutionizing the industry.
Personalization is Key
The survey highlights the growing importance of personalization in healthcare. Over 70% of health insurance executives agree that members’ experiences have become more personalized in recent years. Mobile apps, member portals, and telehealth services are all playing a crucial role in achieving this personalization, with over half of executives crediting these tools (55%). Furthermore, 91% of respondents are actively investing in integrating data across various digital health tools to further personalize member experiences and boost engagement.
Empowered Patients, Improved Outcomes
Easier access to health information appears to be empowering patients and leading to better outcomes. 63% of executives report that members feel more in control and invested in their healthcare due to readily available information. This translates into higher satisfaction – over half of executives (54%) observed increased satisfaction or reduced frustration among members with easier access to information. Additionally, digital tools are streamlining processes, with executives citing a decrease in wait times for medical records (45%) and easier communication with healthcare teams (43%) as key benefits.
Wearables: A New Frontier in Health Management
Wearable devices are emerging as powerful tools for both health monitoring and member engagement. Nearly three-quarters of executives (73%) believe wearables have significantly increased member engagement with their health. Furthermore, wearables are contributing to personalized care – two-thirds of executives (66%) acknowledge their role in personalization. This trend extends beyond health insurance companies, with 68% of respondents reporting that contracted providers are also investing in remote monitoring and wearable devices. The benefits are undeniable – nearly 90% of executives view wearables as effective tools for managing chronic illnesses and enabling personalized care plans. Early detection and prevention of potential health issues are also cited as advantages by 73% of executives.
Data-Driven Decisions for Continuous Improvement
The survey emphasizes the growing focus on measuring the impact of member engagement on patient care. Over 85% of executives reported being able to quantify this impact. This data-driven approach extends to accessibility and user experience, with over three-fifths of executives (61%) conducting regular accessibility testing and over half analyzing device compatibility and user task completion rates to continuously improve digital health platforms.
Cybersecurity: Building Trust in the Digital Age
Cybersecurity remains a top concern, with over half of executives reporting increased investment in cybersecurity solutions compared to the previous year. While costs are a concern (91% expressed some level of concern), these investments appear to be paying off. 70% of executives believe robust cybersecurity measures have increased member trust in using digital health services.
“Integrating consumer-oriented technology into health care processes connects members to personalized care, empowers them with real-time health insights and creates more effective and efficient care and administrative experiences,” said Abby Johnson, EY Americas Health Consulting Leader. “It's the bridge between traditional practice and a future where members hold the key to their own wellbeing, with the support of data-driven, accessible and compassionate health care solutions.”