Five major trends are redefining how we detect diseases, harness artificial intelligence, share critical patient data, expand access to healthcare, and translate research into tangible outcomes. Against the backdrop of global challenges like COVID-19, researchers across Australia, including those at the Australian e-Health Research Centre (AEHRC), are spearheading digital health innovations expected to shape our future by 2025.
“There’s a saying in healthcare that prevention is better than a cure.” This mindset is front and centre as scientists work on innovative technologies to detect and contain pathogens before they wreak havoc. Teams like that of researcher Aminath Shausan have developed the HOTspots antimicrobial-resistant pathogen surveillance platform. They’re forecasting and mapping infections in remote regions, enabling real-time responses to emerging public health threats.
On another front, AI and machine learning are making early diagnoses and remote healthcare increasingly accessible. AI-driven analysis of PET images, led by researcher Pierrick Bourgeat, has the potential to spot Alzheimer’s disease sooner, giving patients more treatment options. Meanwhile, scientist Maria Antico’s collaboration with the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is taking ultrasound to a new level—developing a wearable, AI-supported device that requires no specialist training. The technology could one day help astronauts monitor their health in space.
Improving interoperability—the seamless collection, storage, and sharing of data—continues to be essential. AEHRC’s Liesel Higgins highlighted key findings from the report Australia’s aged care data landscape: Gaps, opportunities and challenges. It lays out how strengthening data systems can improve patient outcomes, particularly for older Australians. Research scientist John Grimes further demonstrated how integrating cardiovascular risk assessment tools into GP systems could streamline lifesaving preventive care.
Ensuring effective healthcare for all Australians means tailoring systems to meet diverse needs. AEHRC’s Indigenous Health Team, in partnership with the Child and Adolescent Health Service in Western Australia, developed Kara-Care—a digital yarning tool aimed at improving health services in the Pilbara region. By reducing patient burden and enhancing data availability for clinicians, such initiatives ensure equity in care for underserved communities.
Finally, turning research into reality hinges on robust implementation. AEHRC’s implementation scientists showcased how standards like ISO 13485 and software-as-a-medical-device frameworks ensure digital solutions are reliable and market-ready. By focusing on certification and quality, they help guarantee that groundbreaking ideas reach the public safely and effectively.
From pinpointing viruses in wastewater to employing AI for faster, better care, these five trends highlight a rapidly evolving digital health sector. As AEHRC and other innovators push forward, Australians can expect smarter, more accessible health solutions by 2025 and beyond.
