FEATURE
Biomedical Engineer : Crucial Role in Future Healthcare Landscape
By Ir . Dr Mas Sahidayana Mohktar Dr Juliana Usman Department of Biomedical Engineering Faculty of Engineering Universiti Malaya
FEATURE
Biomedical engineering is a discipline that applies engineering principles and techniques to solve problems in biology and medicine . It involves the design , development and maintenance of medical devices , equipment and systems , and the application of engineering principles to understand and influence biological processes .
The visibility of biomedical engineering is amplified during chaotic situations such as pandemics or disasters . Biomedical engineering professionals play an important role in healthcare systems during such crisis situations , as evident in the recent Covid-19 pandemic that affected the world . The critical need for respiratory support , as demand for such devices increased at the height of the pandemic , is one of the examples of the role played by Biomedical Engineers in developing and implementing innovative solutions in collaboration with manufacturers and suppliers . Biomedical Engineers also provide feedback on device performance , report issues or defects , and co-ordinate with manufacturers for necessary repairs or replacements . In times of crisis , Biomedical Engineers could also be involved in emergency response efforts . They could help build temporary medical facilities , deploy and maintain critical medical equipment , and provide technical support to healthcare teams working in challenging environments . Their expertise helps healthcare providers deliver quality care and manage effectively the increasing demand for medical equipment during such challenging times .
Moving forward , the outlook for Biomedical Engineers is promising , as the market for medical devices and health-related products and supplies is worth billions of dollars . We play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of healthcare through our innovative contributions . Here are some ways in which Biomedical Engineers contribute to creating the future landscape and the projected market worth 1 :
● Developing Advanced Medical Devices : Biomedical Engineers are at the forefront of designing and developing advanced medical devices that improve patient care and outcomes . They work on innovations such as implantable devices , wearable sensors , robotic-assisted surgical systems , and point-of-care diagnostic devices . These advancements enhance the accuracy , efficiency , and accessibility of healthcare . Based on a compounded annual growth rate , the market for advanced medical devices is projected to reach USD74.2 billion by 2026 .
● Implementing Robotics and AI : Biomedical Engineers integrate robotics and artificial intelligence ( AI ) into healthcare systems , leading to automation and improved precision in various medical procedures . They develop robotic-assisted
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