The Future Awakens: Life Sciences And Health Care Predictions 2022

In 2014 we launched our first predictions report - Healthcare and life sciences predictions 2020: A bold future? It provided an intentionally positive and provocative view of what the world might look like in 2020. Since then the pace and scale of innovation has meant that some of these predictions are already a reality, while some are still some way off; yet others may never happen. Moreover, in the intervening years, the life sciences and health care industries are waking up to the fact that new science, automation and robotics will have a significant impact on the future of work. Last week we launched our newest predictions report - ' The future awakens: Life Sciences and health care predictions 2022'. This week's blog provides an overview of our six predictions and an example of the evidence today that enables us to say with some confidence what tomorrow might look like.

Six predictions for 2022 - both evolutionary and revolutionary

1. The quantified self is alive and well: The genome generation is more informed and engaged in managing their own health.

   In 2022, individuals are better informed about their genetic profile, the diseases they have or might develop, and the effectiveness of health interventions. They are more engaged in improving their own health, and their expectations of health care for themselves and their loved ones are high. Patients are true consumers; they understand they have options and use information and data about themselves and providers to get the best treatment at a time, place and cost convenient to them. The adoption of technology is keeping people connected and active and helping to reduce the cost of health care.For example, in 2017 biometric data and disease signs are wirelessly sent and monitored by doctors and patients via Bluetooth technology. In 2017 nearly two-thirds of smartphones shipped worldwide will feature biometric capability, and by 2019, all smartphones worldwide will ship with biometric technology embedded in them.

2. The culture in health care is transformed by digital technologies: Smart health care is delivering more cost-effective patient-centred care

   By 2022, patients with complex and acute inpatient needs, are treated in 'smart' digitally-enabled hospitals. Clinical roles have been optimised and staff are using cognitive technologies to deliver more seamless, integrated care, designed around patient needs. Providers have established a data-driven, real-time understanding of patient...