We are living through what some scholars call the fourth industrial revolution or Industry 4.0, a process that is connecting data, automating processes and transforming relationships at a speed that was previously unthinkable. Companies are looking for agility and efficiency through business transformation, consistently and comprehensively. The application of technological resources developed by Industry 4.0 in essential areas favors the emergence of Health 4.0, or Digital Health, which is transforming the work of professionals in the sector in the country.

The use of Artificial Intelligence and automation has led to the adoption of disruptive practices in a segment that used to depend almost entirely on human, face-to-face action. According to a study published by the Wiscosin Institute for Healthcare Systems Engineering in the United States, there are two main elements that represent Health 4.0: intelligence and interconnection. The use of Artificial Intelligence undoubtedly improves diagnosis and treatment, since it makes it possible to carry out predictive analysis and monitor the patient. In terms of interconnection, technology enables gains to be made at every link in the ecosystem: between medical staff, between doctors and patients, between equipment, between healthcare institutions, in short, between all stakeholders.

Especially since the pandemic, we’ve seen technology enabling more efficient and comprehensive medical care in all regions of the country, through telemedicine, remote reporting, personalized health application, digital integration between clinics, laboratories and hospitals, electronic patient records (PEP) and the use of Big Data for data storage and decision-making.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the advances of AI and technology in general for improvements in the health sector. In its 2021 report “Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence for Health”, there are recommendations to ensure that the innovation is used appropriately. As a result of an 18-month study involving a disciplinary team from the fields of health, technology, human rights and ethics, the report highlights the importance of considering data protection and the diversity of socio-economic environments.

In a country as large and deeply unequal as Brazil, Health 4.0 for the entire population is a huge challenge that must be taken seriously by all the participants involved. There is no doubt that the way to ensure that everyone has access to quality medical services is through innovation.