Australia’s healthcare system is one of the strongest in the world. The industry has revolutionised in recent years, partly due to necessity during and after the pandemic. However, the pace of change is not showing signs of slowing down with key healthcare trends continuing to drive advancements.
To maintain the strength of the sector, our workforce must be at the forefront of healthcare innovations. Read on to discover how to stay abreast of the trends and how postgraduate study can help you advance in a rapidly changing industry.
4 trends in healthcare in 2024
With new advancements and discoveries, healthcare is a sector that is always evolving. Now more than ever, it’s critical that we pay attention to the trends to ensure the Australian healthcare system maintains its strength.
Discover the four key trends in healthcare that should be front of mind for all health professionals.
1. Ageing and preventative health
Data from the National Health Survey reveals that one in two Australians suffer from at least one chronic health condition. Our population is also ageing at an increasing rate, with the number of Australians aged 65+ expected to increase by six per cent in the six years to 2026.
Dr Carlotta Petti, DNA Nutrition consultant and scientific director of nutrigenomics at genetic testing company myDNA, says longevity is a particularly exciting healthcare trend in relation to ageing. She says individuals can use information from genetic testing to optimise their lifestyle and wellbeing for longevity.
“With the most recent state-of-the-art epigenetic tests, we can measure a person’s biological age,” she adds. “This measures their current health status and potential for ageing well.”
In the context of an ageing population, Dr Petti explains that there is a focus “on decreasing the global burden of disease and helping people to live healthier, longer lives”. This will ultimately lessen the impact of ageing and chronic conditions on the healthcare system.
“We’re witnessing the emergence of longevity clinics across Australia, offering proven protocols for rejuvenation and longevity,” reveals Dr Petti. “From innovative technologies like magnetic fields and oxygen masks to treatments such as ice baths and infrared saunas, these clinics are paving the way for optimising health and improving quality of life.”
2. Digital health services
Digital health services — such as telehealth — is a health trend that is now a necessity. Researchers predict that at least 50 per cent of all new health services will need to move to virtual delivery to meet the growing demands on the healthcare system.
Almost a third of Australians access telehealth for appointments with their GP or medical specialists. Beyond this, Dr Petti says that digital health services are increasingly moving into health and wellness through online programs. For example, she offers consultations for those who achieve optimal health and get personalised advice.
Increasingly, dietitians, naturopaths, nutritionists and physiotherapists are delivering comprehensive self-paced programs to educate and empower people to live healthy lives.
“With such a model, people get a comprehensive service to manage their issue, without overwhelming the practitioner’s capacity,” Dr Petti adds. “Patients can also access tests and prescriptions, all online.”
For patients, especially those living in remote or regional areas, digital service offerings remove barriers to healthcare, making it more accessible and convenient. Digital health services put health information into more people’s hands when and where they need it.
3. Mental health
Mental health is an increasingly prevalent issue, with 43 per cent of Australians reporting they have experienced a mental health disorder at some point in their lives.
In the six years to 2023, GPs reported an 11 per cent increase in the number of patients presenting with mental health issues. Researchers have also found a generational decline in mental health with those born in the 1980s and 1990s experiencing deteriorating mental health. Unlike previous generations, the mental health of this cohort isn’t improving as they age.
More Australians are seeking support for their mental health, with GPs the most common port of call. The number of people seeing a psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor is on the rise, as is the number of people accessing digital mental health services or apps.
In 2024 following a recommendation from the Mental Health Reform Advisory Committee, the Federal Government announced a $456 million dollar investment in digital mental health services. This is designed to support the system to keep pace with demand for mental health care.
As a broad disease group, mental health falls second behind cancer as responsible for 15 per cent of the burden of disease in Australia. Continued investment in and expansion of mental health services as a healthcare trend will help to minimise the impact of mental health on the healthcare system. Patients will also benefit from increased access to treatment options, influencing their quality of life and overall health.
4. Emerging technologies
Generative AI has been big news for various industries, including healthcare. AI is one of a broader set of emerging technologies that make up one of the most significant health trends in Australia.
Dr Petti says the industry is seeking what’s known as ‘omics’ technologies to become more and more clinically relevant. Omics can influence and boost early detection of diseases and predispositions, as well as diagnostics and prescription of personalised treatments.
“For example, we are already seeing the use of pharmacogenomics in daily prescribing protocols,” she explains. “Genomic testing is also being used for pre-natal or condition-specific predisposition screening to support important clinical decisions.”
The technology trend is echoing right across the health sector. Wearable devices are an accessible option that puts health information in the hands of the patient. Practitioners are using virtual reality to help with the management of chronic pain. 3D printing is used across a range of applications as a cost-effective option for printing surgical tools and implants.
While the possibilities of this emerging technology are exciting, there are concerns that must be considered alongside broader implementation. “The advent of these technologies introduces a much bigger amount of data and analytics than before, which needs to be treated with confidentiality and security,” cautions Dr Petti.
Adapt to trends in the healthcare industry with postgraduate study
These healthcare trends will reshape the sector. Dr Petti argues that education is key to keeping abreast of progress.
“Getting to know new technologies is the most important skill,” she adds. “Providers of new technologies should also engage in education so all involved can make the best use of the tools available.”
For healthcare professionals, postgraduate study is a great way to learn relevant skills and knowledge for the changing healthcare landscape.
For example, the Master of Advanced Nursing Majoring in Chronic and Complex Care from the University of Technology Sydney will accelerate your knowledge in ageing and preventative care. With a focus on person-centred care, the course is contemporary and comprehensive, preparing you for leadership in the sector.
To pursue a career in digital health services, consider the Master of Health Services Management Majoring in Quality and Safety, also from the University of Technology Sydney. In addition to developing your expertise on health systems and services, opt for a sub-major in digital health to understand the fundamentals and approaches in this specialisation.
With the growing mental health trend, the Southern Cross University Master of Mental Health offers contemporary insight into holistic mental health treatment. The course teaches evidence-based theories for application in a range of mental health settings.
Upskill in emerging technologies with the University of Technology Sydney Graduate Certificate in Medical Science Innovation. Develop an understanding of precision medicine, big data and healthcare innovations to stay at the leading edge of medical technology.
Drive your healthcare career further
Are you looking to grow the evolving healthcare industry? Explore our health courses to speak to a Student Enrolment Advisor about how postgraduate study equips you with the latest skills and training.
