Personalized healthcare: The future of medicine

The power of data analysis

Digitization and AI, and machine learning-based analytical techniques give healthcare providers an even greater ability to identify patterns and predict trends that are not apparent through traditional analysis. The volume of data available – which can be enhanced on an individual level by wearable technology – and increasingly sophisticated analytical techniques are allowing us to move towards a more preventative and personalized approach to health and wellbeing.

People who are particularly vulnerable to disease (for genetic, socio-demographic, or environmental reasons, for example) can be identified and targeted for risk-based screening and early intervention. The better the data and analysis, the greater the effect of personalized preventative treatment interventions – rather than targeting an entire demographic group for screening (such as the over 60s for bowel cancer screening, for example), individuals could be assessed based on their own unique risk factors earlier or more frequently.

Ultimately, this approach leads to a comprehensive model where all facets of an individual’s life that may affect their wellbeing can be analyzed and assessed, and healthcare professionals could use these insights to plan and provide each person the right solution the first time.

Personalized communication

Technology is also transforming the way in which patients and healthcare providers interact, allowing for more personalized communication and interactions. The use of digital platforms means that people and patients are better informed about their health and are nudged by information that is timely and relevant. This encourages proactive healthcare, where automated service encounters are generated from pre-defined care plans and at-risk individuals can be actively offered preventative screenings, vaccinations and on-time interventions.

We have seen the benefits in practice in Lithuania, where we designed a national health record system for the government that has transformed the country’s healthcare system. The centralized electronic platform replaced an inefficient paper-based records system that meant doctors often had to wait days for test results, and patients could not easily access their own medical records or those of their children.

The new digital system is accessed through intuitive online portals for doctors, administrators, pharmacists and patients. Patients can securely access their own records and healthcare professionals can access lab results in real time. The system also features robust security measures for strict patient data access control and legal compliance, with tools for auditing, monitoring and statistical analysis.

Efficient, effective healthcare

Personalized treatment equips patients with tailored information, resources, and treatment choices, giving them more control over their own care management and nudging them to adopt healthier lifestyles. As a result, people are more motivated, involved and engaged in their own wellbeing, while patients are closely involved in the decision-making process and are more likely to adhere to treatment plans.

A personalized approach reduces healthcare costs in the long term by helping to prevent disease, allowing for earlier intervention, and by focusing on targeted treatments. The population is healthier, resources are strategically and more efficiently allocated, chronic conditions more effectively managed, and a relationship of trust can be built between healthcare providers, patients and payers because every interaction creates value.