Book Review: The Internet of Healthy Things

Abstract

(IoT). The acronym IoT was coined in 1999 by Ashton [1], referring to the “networked interconnection of everyday objects, which are often equipped with ubiquitous intelligence” [2]. Currently, the number of devices connected to each other exceeds the entire population of the world, and such change has converted the concept of the internet from an “internet between people” to an “internet between things” [3]. The expansion of the IoT has resulted in changes in the healthcare service area as well. Through IoT technologies, the biometric data of consumers are automatically captured in real time and sent to primary care professionals, who provide recommendations and coaching for health and wellness based on the unique data streams delivered from powerful offsite computers. This process will ultimately make consumers’ lifestyles, daily activities, and health behavior more healthy [4,5]. Such changes are currently in progress, and Kvedar [4] now refer to the Internet of Healthy Things to explain such phenomenon. Even prior to the existence of the internet, smartphones, apps and sensors, Dr. Kvedar claimed that healthcare should move from the hospital and the physician’s office to the everyday lives of patients. He implemented personal health technologies with which the patient and healthcare provider could improve the management of chronic diseases, maintain health and wellness, and improve clinical outcomes in the healthcare delivery system [6]. Based on his experience as a doctor and a pioneer in the area of digital healthcare for more than 20 years, he summarized the knowledge, experience, and lessons that he gained in a book entitled, “The Internet of Healthy Things.” This book does not simply describe the ideal future of healthcare but instead discusses actual attempts that have been and are being carried out, while also discussing frankly the obstacles and challenges The Internet of Healthy Things