New Generations More Adept With Technology

Everyone knows that each generation has specific characteristics that involve all aspects of life including how they obtain health information. Generation X grew up with the development of computers and remains constant users of technology. The Internet Generation (also known as the Millennial Generation or Generation Y finds great ease and comfort in communicating via technology. Instant communication is a way of life and they are online 24/7 either emailing, text-messaging or enjoying online technology. Now here comes Generation Z who has only known technology their entire lives and has even become dependent on it since it is available in their own pocket. They are indeed the ‘immediate need’ generation. What does this say about the future of utilizing mobile apps for global health care needs?

A recent study by Euro RSCG tonic demonstrates percentages of common virtual users in the U.S. It seems that the most receptive individuals to online health care are those with chronic illnesses, more affluent and younger generations. About 50% of the respondents use mobile apps to run do it yourself (DIY) tests at home and monitor their own symptoms. These patients have much to gain by way of convenience and low cost. This high number of users will inevitably increase worldwide as more users realize these benefits. This is a win-win for physicians who can be more efficient due to time constraints and patients who will receive personalized care. Although the study focused on 1,000 U. S. online users, it is noteworthy to recall that Eastern cultures often follow Western culture patterns.

This change in health care usage is correlated to generational shifting. Already half of the new generations (X, Y & Z) are comfortable with virtual health visits compared to Baby Boomers at almost 40%. These newer generations from around the globe will drive remote health care even further. Their different mindset will make it more likely that they will increasingly use technology to serve their health care needs. This will transform global health care delivery. After all, this is the Internet Generation.

(MUR)