By Joie N. Marhefka
I can’t believe that 2023 is coming to an end. This fall semester, and really the whole year, has flown by. As the year ends, I want to take a minute to reflect on some of the trends and “hot topics” in healthcare technology management (HTM), and more specially in HTM education from the past year.
Artificial Intelligence
One topic that no one in education can stop talking about is artificial intelligence (AI), especially the use of ChatGPT. One big concern in education is how students might use ChatGPT to cheat on papers and other homework assignments. While the ethical use of ChatGPT, and more broadly AI, are certainly worthy of discussion, the use of AI as a beneficial tool is also important to consider. AI is being used in various ways in the medical field, including for home healthcare and in interpreting radiographic images. Of particular interest to the HTM field is the use of AI in predictive device maintenance as well as in cybersecurity. If it is used ethically, AI can be a valuable and transformational tool – much like the calculator and computer were to previous generations – that can make all of our jobs easier.
Cybersecurity
Speaking of cybersecurity, it remains a hot topic in the HTM field this year as a number of major health systems were disrupted by cyber-attacks. The vulnerabilities associated with medical devices and the potential to access vast amounts of patient data make health care a prime target of cyber criminals. As long as this is the case, cybersecurity will remain a priority in HTM. I will continue to focus on it in my classes.
AR/VR
The application of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in training is becoming more common. While I was not able to attend the 2023 AAMI eXchange, I know that there were demonstrations of AR/VR training at the conference. I have been using VR headsets and 360-degree videos with my classes to allow students to see various equipment and workplaces. In addition, I am looking at other ways to use AR/VR to enhance their education.
Right to Repair
Another topic that has been in the news throughout 2023 is the right to repair movement. Supporters argue that a person or organization should be able to repair a device that they own or have it repaired by someone of their choosing. On the other hand, opponents cite patient safety concerns associated with the right to repair. This year brought renewed energy to this movement. Many states considered right to repair legislation in 2023, although these bills largely excluded medical equipment. A few states have passed right to repair laws but, again, these largely excluded medical equipment. The debate on this issue will certainly continue into 2024, as will consideration of legislation.
Staffing Struggle
Finally, the challenge to fill open positions in HTM has been a trend that has continued throughout 2023. As health care systems expand and retirements continue. While we are trying to fill these gaps with our graduates, enrollment in our program has been a struggle in recent years. We have been focusing on outreach to high school students and others, with hopes of increasing our class sizes and graduating more professionals to fill these openings. I know that other educational programs have as well. Other efforts, such as AAMI’s BMET apprenticeship program and the proposed AAMI education standard, have also been aimed at addressing this challenge. Hopefully 2024 will bring many new students to our program and many new professionals to the HTM field.
It will be interesting to see how these trends continue into the new year. I look forward to seeing what 2024 will bring in HTM and beyond. I wish all of the readers of “The Future” a Happy New Year and all the best in 2024!
Joie N. Marhefka, Ph.D., is the biomedical engineering technology program coordinator at Penn State New Kensington.
