Previously submitted to: Journal of Medical Internet Research (no longer under consideration since Apr 26, 2025)
Date Submitted: May 31, 2024
Warning: This is an author submission that is not peer-reviewed or edited. Preprints - unless they show as "accepted" - should not be relied on to guide clinical practice or health-related behavior and should not be reported in news media as established information.
Transforming Healthcare: A Narrative Review of 25 Years of Digital Health Interventions and Future Visions to 2050
ABSTRACT
This narrative review explores the transformative journey of digital health interventions over the past 25 years and envisions its future trajectory towards 2050. Through a systematic literature analysis, insightful case studies, and insightful expert opinions, the review delves into the emergence, development, and impact of various digital health strategies on global healthcare delivery. The historical section traces the evolution of digital health, from pioneering technologies and early telehealth experiments to mainstream adoption within healthcare systems. Key milestones, including the deployment of physiological sensors, internet-based technologies (Internet of Things; IoT and Internet of Medical Things; IoMT), and mobile health (mHealth) applications, are examined. The review then analyzes the demonstrated effectiveness of digital health interventions in disease monitoring, prevention, and management through case studies and systematic analyses. It explores the impact of technology on patient engagement, empowerment, and supportive care. Insights from renowned digital health experts, obtained through a questionnaire, are synthesized to identify key drivers, barriers, emerging trends, and disruptive innovations. Furthermore, the review critically evaluates the ethical and legal considerations arising from the widespread use of digital health solutions. Challenges surrounding data privacy, equitable access (digital divide), and regulatory frameworks are addressed to inform responsible future developments. By synthesizing insights from a quarter-century of digital health advancements, analyzing expert opinions, and identifying emerging trends, this comprehensive review provides a timely and multifaceted perspective. It aims to guide researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in leveraging the power of technology to revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes globally in the coming decades (Vision 2050).
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