THE AUTHOR:
Imagine a world where digital technology is more than just a part of daily life – it’s a lifeline. The latest trends in healthcare software development are reshaping the industry, giving the healthcare sector a high-tech makeover.
Not long ago, the concept of e-consultations and AI diagnostics was just an idea, but now it’s an integral part of the healthcare landscape worldwide.
In this revolution, Japan stands at the forefront, playing a leading role in shaping the future of healthcare practices.
According to Statista’s 2023 research, Japan secured the second position in the global health systems ranking, narrowly trailing behind Singapore.
This ranking considered not only the size of the healthcare market but also various indicators assessing population health, access to essential services, health outcomes, healthcare systems, risk factors and mortality rates.
Japan’s remarkable placement in the list is reflected in its status as home to one of the world’s healthiest populations, boasting consistently high life expectancies for both women and men.
What lies behind the success of the Japanese healthcare market, and how do the medical software development trends boost its evolution? Let’s see.
Japanese expansion of the digital health market has been fuelled by various factors.
Firstly, the COVID-19 outbreak accelerated the widespread adoption of digital platforms in the realm of healthcare. As people sought remote and contactless solutions during the pandemic, there was a significant surge in the use of digital health apps and other virtual healthcare services.
Secondly, Japan’s distinctive demographic landscape, characterised by a rapidly ageing population, contributes significantly to the growth of the health sector. As more people in Japan are getting older and dealing with chronic illnesses, there is a growing need for advanced healthcare solutions.
Thirdly, the flourishing digital health sector in Japan can be also attributed to the government’s proactive measures and initiatives. The Health IT Promotion Council’s creation shows the government’s commitment to growing and using digital health technologies, like telemedicine, electronic health records and AI-based diagnostic tools.
Today, Japan boasts one of the world’s largest markets for medical devices and materials, as indicated by the most recent official data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
The size of the health tech market in Japan is projected to experience substantial growth, expanding to 996.5 billion yen by 2025. Notably, the prevention, medical care and treatment segments are anticipated to constitute a considerable portion of this market expansion.
In this article, we will delve into the future trends shaping Japan’s healthcare industry, uncover the most crucial challenges and solutions in medical software development, and evaluate the key benefits of global digitalisation for both patients and healthcare providers worldwide.
Computools
Software Solutions
Computools is a full-service software company that designs solutions to help companies meet the needs of tomorrow. Our clients represent a wide range of industries, including retail, finance, healthcare, consumer service and more.
Types of Medical Software in the Japanese Market
Medical software refers to a broad category of software applications specifically designed for use in healthcare settings. These applications serve various purposes, ranging from patient care and management to administrative functions.
Healthcare software is specifically designed for particular medical subfields, with primary applications including functions like diagnostics and therapeutics, medical record storage and management, medical practice administration, integration with embedded medical devices, quality control and research initiatives.
The development of software plays a major role in addressing diverse requirements within the healthcare industry in Japan. However, the extensive range of functionalities needed cannot be encompassed by a single type of medical software.
Essentially, there are three huge categories of software associated with medical devices: software as a medical device (SaMD), software in a medical device (SiMD), and software utilised in the production or upkeep of a medical device. Within these categories exist a variety of types, each tailored to perform specific functions.
We listed some of the most popular and widely used ones:
1. Electronic Health Records (EHR) Software
Manages digital patient records for streamlined access and improved care coordination.
2. Telemedicine Software
Facilitates remote consultations, enhancing healthcare accessibility and reducing physical interactions.
3. Clinic Management Software
Optimises hospital administration, including scheduling, billing, and resource management.
4. Health Tracking App
Monitors health metrics, promoting proactive individual health management.
5. e-Prescribing Software
Electronically generates and sends prescriptions, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
6. Medical Image Analysis Software
Analyses medical images for accurate interpretation, speeding up diagnostics.
7. Personal Health Record (PHR) Software
Enables patients to oversee their health data, improving communication and accessibility.
8. Healthcare Billing Software
Manages financial aspects, reducing errors and ensuring billing compliance.
9. Remote Patient Monitoring Software
Collects real-time patient data remotely, helping in continuous condition monitoring.
10. Medical Diagnosis Software
Assists in disease diagnosis through the analysis of patient data and medical images.
Though this list is far from being complete, it shows how tech is used widely – from simple well-being apps to entire hospital management systems. Just like innovational progress can’t be confined to one list, healthcare software keeps growing in many ways.
Essential Features for the Development of Medical Software
While medical software types and their features may vary based on healthcare requirements, there exist a set of essential features that are important for every medical application.
Here are some key functions ruling in the realm of medical software development:
1. Security and Compliance
• Robust data security measures to protect sensitive patient information.
• Compliance with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA to ensure legal and ethical standards are met.
2. Electronic Health Records (EHR) Integration
• Seamless integration with EHR systems for comprehensive and centralised patient information management.
• Bidirectional data exchange to keep both systems updated in real time.
3. User-Friendly Interface
• Intuitive and user-friendly design to enhance usability for healthcare professionals with varying technical expertise.
• Clear navigation and well-organised information for efficient workflow.
4. Feedback Mechanism
• User feedback mechanisms to continuously improve software usability and address user concerns.
• Regular software updates and maintenance for bug fixes and feature enhancements.
5. Document Management
• Encompasses retrieval and management of patient information, lab results and prescriptions.
6. Insurance Processing
• Provides the capability to process insurance claims following healthcare provider contracts.
• Streamlines the insurance processing workflow for better financial management.
Benefits of Medical Software
Medical software revolutionises healthcare, benefitting both professionals and patients. Using cutting-edge technology, these solutions boost efficiency, communication and the overall results of healthcare industry in Japan.
Below are some key advantages medical software brings to healthcare.
For Healthcare Providers
• Practice management software streamlines appointment scheduling, billing, and resource allocation for healthcare professionals, making hospital management easier.
• Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems ensure secure documentation of patient information.
• Digital international standards ensure interoperability and compliance in sharing healthcare information between different systems.
• Smart healthcare analytics offer data visualisation, aiding in data-driven decision-making and collaboration among healthcare entities.
For Patients
• Telemedicine and mobile apps make healthcare more accessible. They not only save time but also personalise care plans using health tracking tools.
• Online scheduling, e-prescribing, and healthcare apps add a new level of convenience. Patients get easier and faster healthcare options right from their devices.
• Patient portals boost communication between healthcare providers and patients. They make important information easy to access, all while keeping it safe with strong security measures.
Medical Software Development Trends in Japan In 2024
The realm of medicine is witnessing a transformative wave, with cutting-edge medical software development trends in Japan shaping the future of healthcare delivery.
From the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning to the proliferation of telemedicine solutions, Japan is showcasing a commitment to harnessing technology for improved patient care, streamlined operations and advanced diagnostic capabilities.
Here we delve into the current and predicted trends that will drive medical software development in Japan in 2024.
1. Blockchain Technology
The healthcare sector is increasingly adopting blockchain technology thanks to its capacity for secure and unalterable data storage. Through the implementation of blockchain networks, developers of healthcare software can establish electronic health records, ensuring a transparent and auditable history of patient data access.
2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have become focal points in the realm of technology, proving to be invaluable not only for patients but also for healthcare systems. AI efficiently manages extensive patient data, ensuring privacy.
Virtual bots, driven by AI and ML, engage with patients, providing swift and accurate responses to their enquiries. According to the market study, the AI segment in medtech is poised to more than double by 2025, propelled primarily by the expansion of diagnostic support systems.
3. Internet of Medical Things
The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is reshaping the healthcare sector, forming a network of interconnected medical equipment and diagnostic devices. IoT devices link with home-based medical equipment, allowing remote monitoring.
This facilitates prompt and high-quality diagnosis by medical professionals, extending quality healthcare to patients irrespective of geographical distances.
4. Health Data Generated by Patients
In recent years, patient-generated data has emerged as vital for analytical treatment. Contemporary healthcare applications offer seamless features for effortlessly generating and managing health data.
These apps enable users to track health records and swiftly share information with family or medical staff, ensuring that disease history and current symptoms are readily available at their fingertips, accessible or transferable at any time.
5. Telemedicine
In healthcare software development, telemedicine stands out as a major trend, particularly in recent years. It empowers healthcare professionals to provide medical services from a distance, offering patients increased convenience and accessibility.
The incorporation of telemedicine platforms facilitates virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patient vitals and even diagnostic procedures using IoT-enabled medical devices.
This trend not only alleviates the strain on healthcare facilities but also enhances patient engagement, ultimately leading to a reduction in overall healthcare costs.
Medical Software Development: Challenges and Solutions
Navigating the realm of healthcare industry software is a journey marked by progress in patient care and operational efficiency. Yet, this voyage is not without its unique challenges. Tackling these obstacles becomes paramount for the successful deployment and effective use of resilient healthcare solutions.
1. Data Security and Privacy Concerns
Challenge: Protecting sensitive patient data when developing hospital software.
Solution: Implement robust encryption and comply with healthcare regulations (e.g. HIPAA).
2. User Adoption and Training
Challenge: Resistance to change and the need for extensive training.
Solution: Develop user-friendly interfaces and provide comprehensive training programmes.
3. Integration with Legacy Systems
Challenge: Incorporating new software with existing systems.
Solution: Employ middleware solutions and gradual implementation strategies.
4. Regulatory Compliance
Challenge: Navigating complex healthcare regulations.
Solution: Stay informed on regulatory changes, conduct regular compliance audits, and involve legal experts.
Final Words
The digital makeover and healthcare software development, long awaited and now unstoppable, have revolutionised how medical facilities operate.
Today, almost all use software like AI diagnostics, VR, EHR, CRM, and HMS, boosting staff productivity, cutting errors, saving time and money and, most importantly, improving patient care. The future is here, and it looks promising!
If you’d like to entrust the task of developing your perfect medical software to professionals, don’t be shy and contact us. Reach out to us at info@computools.com now!
Computools was selected through an RFP process. They were shortlisted and selected from between 5 other suppliers. Computools has worked thoroughly and timely to solve all security issues and launch as agreed. Their expertise is impressive.