By Jeff Wardon, Jr., Assistant Editor

With modern technology concepts that seemed like far-fetched science fiction in the past are now not only possible but real and useable. New and emerging technologies, like digital twins, can assist and streamline processes within the healthcare industry. 

Digital twins are essentially a virtual copy of an object or system made to accurately mirror the physical counterpart, according to IBM. The digital twin can span the original’s lifecycle while being updated with real-time data and can utilize simulation, machine learning and reasoning to inform decision making.  

Related: Digital Tools, Retail Sites and Interconnected Healthcare Systems

Healthcare facility managers can use digital twins to see things in their facility from both a granular and holistic perspective. It also lets them see a representation of how their facility runs in real-time. 

According to JPT Architects, other benefits of using digital twins includes:  

• Digital twins integrate information from many connected systems and sensors in a healthcare facility, allowing for real-time monitoring. 
• Digital twins allow for predictive maintenance approaches for various infrastructure and equipment through the use of existing and real-time data. 
• It gives insights into how space is used throughout a healthcare facility. 
• By actively tracking and analyzing energy use patterns, a digital twin can help healthcare facilities optimize their energy use and cut operational costs. 
• It can strengthen preparedness and response initiatives by giving facility managers real-time knowledge and support tools. 
• It can streamline compliance management and reporting methods for healthcare facilities. 

Jeff Wardon, Jr., is the assistant editor for the facilities market.