People continue to generate remarkable amounts of data at an accelerating rate. The umbrella term for all the data people create is called Big Data. Despite some of its disadvantages, Big Data should be considered a blessing because it provides researchers with sufficient knowledge and allows them to make precise conclusions. It is especially true for clinical workers, who utilize the numerous tools associated with Big Data daily.
Fortunately, I do not have negative experience with the usage of Big Data. Moreover, it is undeniable that a broad application of the technology in various spheres can lead to multiple positive outcomes. For example, Mehta et al. (2018), with reference to McKinsey Global Institute, say that the usage of Big Data can decrease the US healthcare expenditure by 8%. Thus, the government can allocate these funds to provide other forms of social security.
However, there are also some disadvantages to the usage of Big Data. A problem that concerns me is the probability of a mistake. As the amounts of data increase, medical staff has to rely on computer systems quite often, which may cause them to miss some details, eventually leading to a medical error. Dash et al. (2019) mention that the medical sphere does not adapt to digitalization as quickly as other industries. These problems can be eventually resolved, but they present a real risk to patients right now.
Some strategies can help address the issues related to Big Data. Dash et al. (2019) propose a positive idea that Big Data usage and further digitalization of medicine are likely to reduce medical errors and improve the quality and efficiency of medical service. In another work, Mehta et al. (2018) state that the usage of cloud computing can significantly simplify Big Data analysis. I agree with this point and think it is a good strategy to handle the Big Data problems.
It is crucial to learn how to utilize the large volumes of data. Big Data can substantially enhance living standards across the globe, as it provides medical staff and researchers with essential information and statistics and brings positive consequences. However, the risks and challenges that Big Data presents should be evaluated accordingly. Technologies become more accurate and efficient yearly; therefore, most of the issues can be addressed in a due manner.
References
Dash, S., Shakyawar, S. K., Sharma, M., & Kaushik, S. (2019). Big Data in healthcare: management, analysis and future prospects. Journal of Big Data, 6(1), 1-25.
Mehta, N., & Pandit, A. (2018). Concurrence of big data analytics and healthcare: A systematic review. International Journal of Medical Informatics, 114, 57-65. Web.