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. 2023 Aug 25;23(17):7435. doi: 10.3390/s23177435

Table 5.

Energy challenges with Healthcare 4.0.

Challenge Issues with Healthcare 4.0
High energy consumption technologies Healthcare 4.0 systems incorporate a wide range of energy-intensive technologies, such as medical imaging equipment, laboratory instruments, and data centers. The cumulative energy demand can be significant, leading to increased operational costs and environmental impact.
Battery life of medical devices Healthcare 4.0 relies on battery-operated medical sensors and wearable devices for real-time communication and access to patient information. Limited battery life can be a concern during extended shifts or emergencies, affecting the continuity of care. Modern communication networks, e.g., IoMT, demands ten years of battery life.
Energy efficiency of medical devices Medical devices may lack energy-efficient designs. As these devices remain in use for extended periods, their higher energy consumption contributes to overall energy challenges in healthcare settings.
Power management The proliferation of IoMT devices in Healthcare 4.0 requires careful power management. Frequent battery replacements or recharging protocols can be burdensome and impact device utilization.
Renewable energy integration Incorporating renewable energy sources, e.g., solar, into Healthcare 4.0 facilities can help reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. However, implementation complexities, including wireless power transfer challenges, present challenges.