A new study recently published by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) — the folks behind the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) — shows that consumers demand better access to mobile health services and access to their personal medical information.
The study, entitled “The New Role of Technology in Consumer Health and Wellness,” examines consumer perceptions and attitudes in using new age digital and mobile health tools and services. In it, it was found that 36 percent of consumers say they’d be interested in sending health data to their doctor via a wireless device; 33 percent are interested in managing their health records online; and 32 percent would be willing to consult with their doctor via online video.
Looking deeper at specific devices, it was found that the highest interest was in body weight scales (44 percent), vital sign meters and gauges (40 percent) and devices that record progress through a fitness plan (37 percent). In terms of more basic health and fitness mobile applications, the most popular choices are nutrition trackers (51 percent), fitness apps that measure workout regimens (36 percent) and customized music apps for exercise (32 percent).
“New technologies change the way we communicate with our doctors, and consumers are seeking mobile apps that cut down on the need for appointments, reduce costs and increase efficiency,” said Ben Arnold, senior research analyst at CEA. ”Doctors play a major role in educating consumers about technology, as more than half of consumers said they consult their healthcare provider for information on health technology devices.”
The complete study is available free to CEA member companies here. Non-members can purchase the study for $999 at the CEA Store.