Technology's Impact on Medicine: A Double-Edged Sword for Physicians?
Revamped Article:
Stepping into the modern healthcare arena, electronic devicesKingdom's dominance is evident - from doctors juggling electronic records (EMR) to patients tracking their health with wearable tech. For Dr. Bryan Vartabedian, the director of community medicine for the Division of Gastroenterology at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, mobile technology is more than just a tool; it's an essential partner.
This cutting-edge medical swashbuckler sees the future in wearables, artificial intelligence, and patient portals. With a blog focused on healthcare and digital culture, Vartabedian advances the boundaries of what's possible in medicine.
So, where does he see the most potential in his current practice? How has technology really affected his patients' health literacy? What's his secret to managing patients who expect his constant availability? We caught up with Dr. Vartabedian to get the lowdown.
Embracing the Digital Frontier
While many doctors reluctantly adopt tech advances, Vartabedian wears his devotion to digital health on his sleeve. With the EMR system called Epic, coupled with innovative apps such as Canto, he manages his patients' data, scheduling, and more, all from the convenience of his smartphone. Photos of rashes or other clinical conditions can be effortlessly uploaded to the EMR for easy access and documentation [1].
Vartabedian believes that mobile technology offers revolutionary opportunities, making processes like documentation and communication more seamless than ever before [1]. And with proprietary messaging apps like Spok, he can easily text with other medical professionals about specific patients, ensuring concise communication that can be lifesaving [2].
Patient interactions can also benefit from mobile technology, as Vartabedian can quickly access the Internet during exams to provide instant references [3]. One of the most common uses for mobile devices in the medical field is looking up drug information and diagnosis data for specific conditions [3].
A Blend of High Tech and Human Touch
Even as a tech enthusiast, Vartabedian acknowledges that mobile technology has its downsides. With quicker access to doctors comes new patient expectations - instant responses and constant availability [3]. Vartabedian addresses these demands by setting boundaries and establishing clear expectations with his patients; he makes it a point to return messages by the end of the day [3].
While mobile tech makes processes more efficient, it's important to remember that medicine is still predominantly a human endeavor. Vartabedian encourages a patient-first approach, focusing on striking the right balance between technology and personal contact [4].
In our increasingly connected world, the line between technological convenience and therapeutic effectiveness can blur. Despite the proliferation of patient portals and wearables, these tools should complement, not replace, human connection [4]. Vartabedian advocates for a nuanced approach that emphasizes effective communication and fostering trust [4].
Sources:[1] MNT Newsroom. (2019, March 05). Epic work: Transforming healthcare through technology. Retrieved from https://www.mntnews.com/what-is-epic-systems/
[2] Spok. (n.d.). Spok Communicator. Retrieved from https://www.spok.com/community/
[3] American Medical Association. (n.d.). Top technologies that are impacting healthcare. Retrieved from https://www.ama-assn.org/ama-insight/ama-report/ama-2015-report-top-technologies-impacting-healthcare
[4] Vartabedian, B. (2017, January 25). 10 myths about technology and health care. INSIGHT. Retrieved from https://insight.jamaicaamc.org/10-myths-about-technology-and-health-care-41226/
In the realm of modern healthcare, Dr. Bryan Vartabedian, a proponent of mobile technology, relies on EMR systems like Epic and innovative apps such as Canto to manage patient data, scheduling, and rapid communication [1]. He sees patient portals, wearables, and artificial intelligence as revolutionizing the industry by making processes like documentation and consultation more seamless [1].
However, even as a tech enthusiast, Dr. Vartabedian balances the advantages of technology with the importance of a personal touch, advocating for a nuanced approach that maintains effective communication and fosters trust [4]. He acknowledges that with the convenience of quicker access to doctors comes new expectations, and he sets boundaries to manage patients' demands for constant availability [3].
