(Newswire.net — November 18, 2022) — Many people are not aware of how an integral part of the medical industry has been shaped by semiconductor technology. Nowadays, more and more areas in the medical field are using semiconductors. There are healthcare startups that are leveraging innovations in tech to revolutionize patient care.
A semiconductor is bridging medical innovations with startups. For example, there are radioactive sources for imaging techniques, such as PET imaging for cancer diagnosis and therapy monitoring. Here is a list of important ways semiconductors impact the medical industry.
1. Prevention and Early Diagnosis
Semiconductors profoundly impact medical devices and equipment, from cardiac pacemakers to electronic thermometers to embedded computers, that allow researchers to make sense of large data sets. Medical equipment with semiconductors allows for non-invasive diagnostics and patient monitoring, reducing the costs associated with repeated doctor visits and costly invasive procedures.
With the improved ability to detect disease, medical experts can better recognize signs of infection or illness. Disease detection is made possible through devices that measure vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure, detect early signs of infections and treat them before they develop into serious health problems.
Semiconductor-based systems for remote patient monitoring play an essential role in improving the quality of life for those suffering from chronic health conditions. By allowing patients to monitor their conditions, they can focus on their treatment and recovery at home instead of having their care only in hospitals. The role of communication between patient and caregiver is also improved when connected with vital signs monitoring systems.
2. Health and Fitness Tracking
Semiconductors can be integrated into wristbands, with the ability to monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. This can give patients a way to monitor their health and well-being.
Semiconductors have also greatly impacted the health of athletes and other physically active people, from body-worn sensors that allow athletes to improve their performance by monitoring their movements to smartphones with apps that can map out walking or running routes with GPS. Heart rate monitoring watches can help athletes monitor their heart rate while exercising, while others focus on other metrics like blood pressure.
By monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rates, a patient’s daily life can be less stressful, and they can live a more carefree life as long as their health is under control.
3. Health IT
The semiconductor space has evolved in recent years with healthcare-specific chips used in wearables, infotainment, and many other areas. There have also been advances in medical imaging tools that help with early diagnosis, accelerated drug discovery, and enable the development of high-quality clinical trials.
Another example is the use of semiconductor technology in medical imaging equipment, such as ultrasound and x-ray machines. These advancements have improved patient outcomes and helped advance healthcare technology.
Offering health care services have become easy because recent developments in semiconductor technology are opening up a whole new world of possibilities for medical devices that brings diagnosis and treatment right into the home. Semiconductors in medical devices are changing how healthcare services are delivered.