When I think of the future, I imagine the American animated sitcom, The Jetsons (1962). The technology of that time has advanced to where everyone relied upon them. Cars are flying, artificial intelligence is highly seen incorporated into the culture, and robots are utilized as assisted living. Mobile technology is something we, as human beings, rely heavily to navigate through today's life and society. Smartphones, tablets, and wearable tech are some that are classified as mobile technology. While most see mobile technology as simple devices, others see it as a form of connection and an essential part of life. This blog will detail the impact of mobile technology has on communication professionals and the type of skills needed to adapt to any changes.
Enhancing Connection with Communication
An immense number of American's own some type of cellphone or smartphone. That fact means that there are a number of ways to reach a target audience. When cellphones were first introduced, the only ability to connect with others was through phone calls or text messages. Fast-forward to today, users now can make Facetime video calls, voice recorded messages, include images and videos in text messages, and the list goes on. Even during times of crisis, like COVID-19, anyone can continue with life's challenges using mobile technology. Professionals have the opportunity to align themselves with mobile technology to push the conversation online and attract a target audience. What is the harm in having a simple conversation online?
The most notorious sector that has taken full advantages of mobile technology is healthcare. In the summer of 2021, I caught pneumonia twice in two separate instances. Once in September and then again in November. Keep in mind, the world was trailing off COVID-19 but it was still a grave issues. For those who have never experienced pneumonia, imagine having a hard time breathing and moving around. Going to visit a physician with pneumonia was very difficult as most will say resting is important. Lucky enough, my healthcare provider began utilizing telehealth to easily and efficiently provide mobile healthcare. Without having to move from my bed, I was able to speak to a healthcare provider. Since I utilized wearable technology, the healthcare provider was able to access my health stats through technology. Without these accessible options, it would have been more difficult to received health care options during a world crisis. Here is a list from an infographic provided by Maryville University (2021) listing the purpose of mobile health:
For patients:
- Nutrition and wellness - Teleheath - Chronic disease management - Medication management - Symptoms check - Access to medical health
For healthcare providers:
- Health record maintenance
- Patient monitoring
- Information management
- Time management
- Reference
- Medical education
- Communications
- Clinical-decision making
Mobile Technology Education
It is a common thread that once technology advances, the user must advance alongside. Can it be safe to say that any professional must be three steps ahead of any technological advancement? Absolutely! As technology advances, it is essential that every type of user, whether it be for personal or professional aptitudes, must be three steps ahead. It can be easy to fall behind and get lost in the sauce. Let us take the healthcare sector as an example. Professionals must understand and acquire the skills through technology when new updates and softwares are introduced in order to stay connected with patients. It also strengthens the trust in the healthcare system which is an important factor to have regarding health. Statistics show that teleheath during the pandemic increase patients' access to healthcare, avoidance of hospitalizations, and improved outcomes (Maryville University, 2021). For any organization, it is essential and advisable for professionals to be well educated of mobile technology services that is provided for consumers. There needs to be an understanding of the tools to be able to connect, engage, and assist consumers in a timely manner.
Maryville University. (2021). Mobile technology in healthcare: Trends and benefits. Maryville University. https://online.maryville.edu/blog/mobile-technology-in-healthcare/
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