Healthcare QUEST

The first step in managing any health condition is to detect it. If we can detect a problem early, then it should be easier to fix it. In an ideal world, assessment of health would not depend on one-off visits to the doctor or nurse. Measures of how well our bodies are working would happen throughout the day, but in the background, without interfering with daily life.

• Scientists from the University of Glasgow are developing new systems that could allow for continuous checking of health. A recent technology allows for non-obtrusive assessment of your heart’s rhythm and strength.

Another complex issue is trying to keep track of someone’s health and wellbeing. There are many situations where we may wish we could keep track of a person 24 hours a day. In an ideal world, healthcare would focus on monitoring for problems and preventing them before they happen. A powerful system could even detect the very early signs of medical conditions.

• Scientists from the University of Glasgow and Lancaster are also developing new healthcare systems which allow for continuous, remote monitoring of activity and movement.

These new technologies could transform healthcare, but there are still lots of questions that need answered before they could be used in the NHS. The team are looking for people give their opinions on the new technologies they are developing. All input would be hugely helpful for the team, and they can reimburse participants for their time and any expenses.

To find out more about the project and how you can help visit the QUEST team’s website (this link will take you away from our website).