There has been a sharp rise in the number of patients willing to share data from wearables with their doctors, according to Texas-based Software Advice.

It found that 91% of patients are interested in sharing wearables data with their doctors, up from 56% two years ago.

Trust in wearables for medical use has surged in the past few years, paralleled by an increased demand for its integration by healthcare providers, according to Software Advice research.

The wearables market is growing exponentially, with innovations coming out every year. Brands such as Fitbit and Apple have helped drive this surge, offering consumers affordable devices that can track health data. Software Advice’s 2023 Consumer Wearables Survey (www.softwareadvice.com/resources/consumer-wearables-in-healthcare) of more than 850 patients found these devices were facilitating an increase in patient engagement and healthcare collaboration.

For healthcare providers, this shift presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Almost all (87%) patients are more inclined to choose a doctor who incorporates wearable data into their healthcare regimen. Additionally, 91% of respondents reported an interest in sharing their wearable health data with their doctors, a marked rise from 56% who were very interested in 2021.

Consumers are ready to use wearables. Respondents cite wanting to share data to improve health outcomes, meet fitness goals and manage chronic illnesses. An overwhelming 78% of patients are also eager to receive doctor-prescribed activities tailored for their wearable. When it comes to implementation and practice, a majority (76%) of patients feel the most comfortable sharing their wearable data with doctors during in-person exams.

“As the wearables market continues to diversify, we’re seeing new and improved technologies like biosensors, patches and rings that can prevent, monitor and help treat chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” said Lisa Morris, associate principal medical analyst for Software Advice. “Nevertheless, with such advancements comes the imperative need to prioritise data security.”

Despite the benefits of wearables, privacy is still a major concern. Even though only 9% of patients in the survey said they weren’t interested in sharing wearable data with doctors, their reasons for feeling this way must be addressed. Of that group, 41% say they have concerns about losing their data in a potential security breach and 37% are worried the data won’t be accurate and lead to negative health outcomes.

“Practices that embrace wearable technology early and provide privacy safeguards for patients could result in improved health outcomes for patients and increase their bottom line,” Morris said.

Software Advice (softwareadvice.com) simplifies software buying through one-on-one conversations and trusted insights. Industry-specific advisors guide buyers to software options in as little as 15 minutes, and it’s free. Founded in 2005, the company has helped more than 950,000 businesses find the right software for their needs.