In Paderborn, Germany an exciting exhibition has opened its gates to the public. Until May 2007 visitors can check out the “Computer.Medizin” exposition and get an impression of what tomorrow’s electronic healthcare might look like: A toilet, which automatically measures body-fat, blood pressure, and pH-value of its user for example. Or a mobile phone that automatically transmits all important client-data to a doctor when held near the heart. (http://www.heise.de)

As futuristic as these medical innovations may sound, digital technology has taken over healthcare long ago. Thanks to modern electronics, patients can now be treated much more efficient than before. From diagnostics to treatment to recovery – high-tech medicine is on the rise.

One example of how helpful digital technology is in the health-care sector is diagnostics. Sophisticated machines are capable of creating 3D images of blood vessels, inner organs, or complete areas of the body. MR or magnetic resonance is the term for what saves patients the trouble of going through painful examinations. Improvements in X-ray technology ensure that radiance is becoming more and more agreeable for the patients. As a leading supplier of healthcare solutions, Siemens Medical delivers all kinds of state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostics technology. (www.medical.siemens.com)

Another groundbreaking innovation came with the introduction of robots and computers into the operating room. (http://www.iscas.net/) Many surgeries that were unattainable before the digital era (such as various heart or brain operations), can now be carried out by doctors. Thanks to Endoscopy doctors can enter the patient’s body with tiny equipment and see their actions through a tiny camera that is also inserted into the body.

And even for people with disabilities, modern technology offers amazing inventions. It is now possible for people with physical disabilities to operate computers by tracking their eye movements. Other helpful technologies include speech-control for merely any sort of electronic device and an array of high-tech mobility aids. (http://www.abilityhub.com/)

However advanced and sophisticated modern medicine technology may become, the most important factor to stay healthy is to live healthy. Working out, avoiding stress, and eating a balanced diet cannot be replaced by digital treatments and high-tech therapy.