The most important conference of the year for digital health took place in Las Vegas and stood out for its intense 4 days of knowledge and networking. The conference attracted 12000 attendees worldwide, all focused on shaping the future of healthcare innovation.

HLTH USA started on Sunday 20th and ended on Wednesday 23rd, 2024 at the Venetian Explo Center. With over 400 speakers taking the stage, HLTH showed many thought leaders in keynotes and panel discussions.

Did you know about the top 5 trends in digital health?

This year, Softedge was represented by CEO, Alejandro Rama & CBO, Pamela Nogués. A growth team ready to expand their insights on current client needs and showcase the importance of partnering with a digital health software solution company to startups, and innovators. As we dive deeper into the healthcare industry, it’s crucial to understand the emerging trends that are set to redefine how care is delivered and accessed. Today, we bring the top 5 trends of this year’s conference:

1. Embrace Generative AI

Generative AI took center stage at HLTH, captivating the attention of industry leaders and attendees alike. Experts discussed how this technology revolutionizes healthcare by enhancing decision-making processes, optimizing workflows, and ultimately improving patient outcomes. The conversation has shifted from merely experimenting with AI to implementing practical solutions that deliver tangible benefits​. As organizations integrate generative AI into their operations, we can anticipate more efficient healthcare systems that respond swiftly to patient needs, fostering a more personalized care experience.

2. Focusing on Health equity

Health equity emerged as a critical theme, with speakers emphasizing the urgent need to address health disparities across diverse populations. The conference highlighted innovative strategies like data-driven interventions, *essential medication affordable, and community-centric care models to promote equitable access to healthcare services, ensuring that everyone receives the care they deserve. By prioritizing health equity, the industry aims to create a more inclusive healthcare environment that improves outcomes for all​

*A key discussion at the conference focused on making essential medications more affordable, aiming to dismantle financial obstacles that prevent many from accessing necessary treatments. High medication costs frequently force patients to skip doses or forego prescriptions, directly impacting health outcomes. By prioritizing cost reduction, healthcare providers and policymakers are working to broaden access to essential treatments, ensuring that financial limitations no longer stand in the way of equitable care for diverse populations.

‍3. Transitioning to value-based care

The shift towards value-based care models is gaining significant traction. This movement emphasizes the importance of prioritizing patient outcomes over the volume of services rendered, creating a sustainable healthcare system focused on quality. As healthcare organizations adopt value-based care practices, we can expect to see enhanced patient satisfaction, improved health outcomes, and ultimately lower healthcare costs​. This transition is not just a trend; it represents a fundamental change in how healthcare is approached, promising a more patient-centered future.

‍4. Advancing preventive care

Preventive care was a hot topic at the conference, with discussions centered on the importance of early interventions to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases. The shift towards preventive health practices not only enhances individual health but also alleviates the overall burden on healthcare systems​. As organizations invest in preventive care strategies, we can anticipate a healthier population and a more cost-effective healthcare model, ultimately benefiting everyone involved.

‍5. Innovations in Nonclinical Care

Another fascinating trend explored at HLTH 2024 was the innovation in delivering healthcare services in nonclinical settings, such as patients’ homes. This approach is especially pertinent for mental health services, where accessibility and patient engagement are paramount.​ By expanding healthcare beyond traditional clinical environments, providers can better meet the diverse needs of their patients, leading to improved health outcomes and higher satisfaction rates. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more initiatives aimed at integrating care into everyday life, making healthcare more accessible to all.

The future of digital health

‍New digital tools are expected to enhance productivity in the healthcare arena, allowing companies to interact more directly with patients and clinicians. They also project that the leading companies in women’s health—especially in FemTech—will be those that leverage data-driven solutions to deliver comprehensive, integrated care pathways tailored for women.

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Additionally, experts anticipate a continued shift towards alternative healthcare models that align with consumer needs. Wearable and at-home smart medical devices are expected to gain traction, especially for the management of chronic conditions and postoperative recovery. Virtual hospital wards will enable ongoing patient monitoring via these devices, minimizing the need for physical hospital visits. Telehealth will expand to include not just virtual consultations but also remote diagnostics, potentially incorporating AI for symptom analysis and facilitating at-home lab tests along with real-time vital sign monitoring. Ultimately, these advancements will enhance patient autonomy, empowering individuals to take a more active role in their healthcare and engage meaningfully with their providers and care teams.

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To all startups and entrepreneurs who are looking to learn from other digital healthcare experts and network with such, don’t hesitate to let our team guide you through the first steps and preparations. Check out the following HLTH date conferences to prepare in advance:

• HLTH Europe: Amsterdam. June 16 - 19th, 2025
• HLTH USA: Location to be announced. October 19 - 22nd, 2025

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