Consumers are already starting to change the shape of healthcare through social media, online reviews and use of patient portals, but they\u2019re expected to drive more and bigger changes soon.<\/p>\n
Why?<\/p>\n
Multiple forces will drive even greater engagement and influence going forward, industry experts revealed at the emerge Americas 2015 conference in South Florida.<\/p>\n
These factors include:<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n * Consumers paying an increasing share of their healthcare expenses<\/strong> \u201cConsumerism will likely revolutionize this industry,\u201d said Barbara Ryan, CNBC Contributor.<\/strong> \u201cIt is crucial [the industry] reaches consumers with relevant information and educates them on costs and outcomes. With that, it\u2019s an opportunity for us to benefit from a more connected and cost-effective health care system.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n* The Affordable Care Act spurring more healthcare innovation<\/strong>
\n* New technology making direct consumer engagement easier<\/strong><\/p>\n