The global pandemic accelerated virtual medicine a lot faster than what was expected. Globally, hospitals and healthcare organizations are embracing internet-enabled medical technologies to improve patient care. Physical consultations have given way to telemedicine, thanks to the Internet of Things. It has now become possible for healthcare professionals to monitor patients' health remotely and make real-time recommendations. IoT has vastly improved preventative and emergency care. Patients also report higher levels of satisfaction because medical appointments are now more efficient than before.

There are 15 to 20 connected devices in any average hospital room. Although connected devices have revolutionized healthcare, it has also made people and hospital equipment vulnerable to hacking.

Healthcare and connected devices

The term "connected health" is widely used these days. It refers to the universal structure that maintains both telehealth and telemedicine through connected devices. These connected devices offer numerous benefits to both healthcare organizations and patients. These devices have empowered patients to take better care of their health. Doctors can virtually see, monitor, and treat patients, increasing accessibility and reducing healthcare costs.

Benefits for patients

- Doctors are able to closely monitor patients through sensors or other tools. It makes patients feel secure that their health is being continuously and carefully monitored. It gives a sense of control to patients, especially the ones that suffer from chronic health conditions.

- Thanks to connected devices, doctors are now able to deliver care outside of hospitals and doctor offices. It is a boon for people whose medical conditions make it difficult for them to visit the doctor frequently.

- Connected devices allow doctors to make real-time recommendations, lowering hospitalization rates. Fewer days in the hospital mean lower healthcare costs for patients.

Benefits for healthcare organizations

- The use of connected devices helps in preventing illnesses. It even reduces the rate of hospitalization because doctors are able to monitor patients remotely.

- It allows healthcare organizations to deliver agile treatment plans. Instead of physically visiting hospitals and clinics, patients can receive the care they need from home.

- Big Data connects different aspects of healthcare, giving physicians a complete overview of a patient's health. Detailed information helps doctors pick the right treatment plan minimizing errors.

Concerns with connected devices

With the number of connected devices growing in number each day, it also increases the surface area for cybercriminals to attack. If attackers gain access to these connected devices, they can put patient safety at risk. They can even disrupt crucial healthcare functions. For instance, an attacker could target infusion pumps and change the dosage of medicines.

Attacks on connected devices could have grave consequences. It is not about the loss of data, but an attack could even put people's lives at risk.

There is no doubt that there are numerous advantages of connected devices for the healthcare industry. However, attention to security is a must to minimize risks. Practicing good security hygiene is a must if healthcare organizations want to reap the benefits of connected devices without putting patient lives at risk.