When residential 1 Gbps services are discussed, some people ask who actually needs that kind of speed in the home, really. 4K UHD video across a whole heckuva lot of devices often is at the top of pundits’ lists as to why consumers may want ultra speeds in their residences, but future-forward use cases including widespread Internet of Things (IoT), including health management services often pop into the discussion as well.
Connected health options in the home via broadband are still in their early stages, but there has been clamor about what their potentials could mean to the future of U.S. healthcare and where and how it happens. However, new research from Parks Associates shows that only 13-14 percent of U.S. broadband households express interest in several new health management services, such as remote health monitoring, personal health coaching or wearables that collect data for healthcare providers.
Even people with chronic conditions have shown skepticism because of low awareness and lack of knowledge about these health services, the research firm says. It adds that options such as free trials and the promise of no long-term contract could help boost overall interest and adoption of these services.
“The health industry must convince consumers of the value of these services by enlisting help from their trusted doctor and building a satisfying patient experience that rewards consumers with improved health status both clinically and emotionally,” Parks Senior Research Director Harry Wang comments. “Currently, people don’t understand the value that can be provided to them and the impact these services can have on their healthcare costs and overall wellbeing.”
The research firm’s numbers further show that among U.S. broadband households with connected healthcare devices, 54 percent stopped using their smart watch in six months or less and 33 percent stopped using their digital pedometer or fitness tracker. Only 3 percent of smart watch owners have used their device for three years or more, Parks notes.
Parks Associates is sponsoring its third-annual Connected Health Summit Aug. 30-Sept. 1 in San Diego, and will address these issues as well as other connected healthcare topics.
