This is a guest post by Richard Armstrong who is an early stage investor in many startups in both SE Asia and globally. Plus Richard has cofounded several companies.
Guest Author: Richard Armstrong
Digital health is poised for even more growth in 2024 as new technologies disrupt the industry. From AI-powered apps to advanced surgical robots, investors and consumers should keep an eye on these health tech trends.
Trend 1: Surgical Robotics Goes Mainstream
Intuitive Surgical has dominated robotic surgery for decades, but new entrants are looking to compete. Companies like Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, and Activ Surgical have developed the next generation of surgical robots.
These systems give surgeons greater control and precision compared to manual techniques.
As the technology improves, robotic surgery could become routine and costs could come down.
Trend 2: Digital Therapeutics for Mental Health
Mental health apps are proliferating as researchers demonstrate their effectiveness. For conditions like depression, anxiety, and addiction, digital therapeutics can complement drug-based treatments.
Using CBT, mindfulness, and tracking mood changes, these apps help users manage their mental health.
As insurance coverage expands, prescribing apps may become commonplace.
Trend 3: Sophisticated Health Wearables
Consumers are hungry for more robust health data from their wearables. Companies are innovating with sensors that provide clinical-grade biometrics.
For example, the next Apple Watch may include blood glucose monitoring and Rockley Photonics has developed a non-invasive blood pressure sensor.
These advanced health wearables will allow people to detect issues before they become serious.
Trend 4: Immersive VR for Phobias and Anxiety
Virtual reality exposure therapy is going mainstream with support from researchers and clinicians. VR headsets can simulate environments to help people overcome phobias and anxiety disorders.
Startups like XRHealth are making VR therapy more accessible and insurance reimbursement is expanding.
VR may play a significant role in mental health treatment in the coming years.
Trend 5: AI for Personalized Digital Therapeutics
AI and big data techniques are enabling more personalized digital health interventions.
Apps can analyze user data to adapt treatment plans based on changing needs. In mental health and addiction treatment, AI-guided apps can outperform static alternatives.
Startups like Oreka Health and Quit Genius are developing next-gen AI-powered digital therapies.
Trend 6: Neurofeedback Tech for Brain Training
Neurofeedback is emerging as a promising tool for brain training and overcoming addiction. It allows people to monitor brain wave activity in real-time and get audio or visual feedback to alter patterns.
Neurofeedback training could enhance focus, relaxation, and emotional regulation. Companies like Mindset Health and Neurable are commercializing this tech.
Wrapping Up
The health technology landscape in 2024 will be defined by major advances across the technologies like the ones mentioned above. As these technologies progress, healthcare will become increasingly high-tech, personalized, and powered by data-driven insights.
Patients and providers both stand to benefit from these trends. Surgical robots may enable less invasive procedures, digital mental health tools can increase access to therapy, health wearables will provide patients with more information about their bodies, and AI-guided treatment plans will be highly tailored to individuals’ needs.
While challenges around regulation, data privacy, and clinician training will need to be navigated, the potential for improved patient outcomes through cutting-edge health technologies is vast.
2024 will be a pivotal year for digital health, kicking off a decade where technology becomes fully integrated into how medical care and preventative health is delivered.
