The last decade has seen individuals increasingly taking agency over their own health and wellness, while technology is simultaneously spurring forward medical evaluation and treatment. In the midst of yet another COVID surge, the recent 2022 Consumer Electronic Show (CES 2022) demonstrated just how these fields are finally intersecting.

The intersection of the consumerization of health and the medicalization of technology were on display this year with sessions addressing topics like the health ecosystem at home with both active and ambient health monitoring and promotion; the challenges of integrating technology into our complex health care system; the effects of the pandemic on promoting an interest and a significant financial investment in personal wellness; and the growing world of digital therapeutics.

The show also highlighted the role of augmented reality, extended reality and biosensors in space health and the gamification of health care for training and treatment. Wearables ranging from fitness trackers to jewelry to undergarments and clothing were also on display, while digital health companies touted apps and therapeutics and television companies forayed into behavioral health interventions. In addition, augmented reality gained traction in everything from physical therapy to surgical education.

Artificial intelligence (AI) also took center stage, with recognition that "if you're not already thinking about it, you're behind." The sheer quantity of data that clinicians are being asked to access and interpret is arriving at a volume and pace that cannot be managed by the individual clinician or even the care team. AI holds the power to help reduce this cognitive load to increase clinician attention, focus and performance.

Of note, areas where there is recurrent uncertainty in the diagnostic process are where AI may be most valuable. Creating a system where AI assists when needed and defers to the clinician in other areas can lead to better safety and quality of medical care. While some CES panels exploring this in more detail were postponed – including one on bias and AI that the ACC was involved with – there will be more opportunities to continue the discussion going forward.