The article commemorates the 50th anniversary of the barcode, highlighting its evolution from simplifying grocery checkouts in 1974 to the modern-day use of QR codes. Carrie Wilkie of GS1 US discusses how barcodes initiated a revolution in efficiency and error reduction for businesses. Modern 2D barcodes, like QR codes introduced in 1994, have gained widespread adoption, especially post-Covid-19, providing versatility for both consumers and retailers. These codes can convey a wide range of information from nutrition facts to promotion deals while also supporting supply chain logistics. Wilkie envisions a future where today’s barcoding technology is replaced by even more advanced solutions.

The barcode turned 50. Here’s how far we’ve come Morning Brew

A Texas hospital has reverted to using paper records following the expiration of its electronic health record (EHR) contract. This change comes as the facility grapples with financial difficulties, which have also resulted in staff layoffs. The details were reported by D Magazine.

Hospital returns to paper records after EHR contract lapses Becker's Hospital Review

### Telehealth Declines as AI and In-Person Visits Rise Post-Pandemic
Post-pandemic, the demand for telehealth services has decreased, and healthcare trends are shifting towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and in-person visits. Oregon Health & Science University recently disbanded a prominent telehealth nursing unit established during the pandemic. According to experts, traditional telehealth models, which focused on transactional interactions without holistic care, are becoming outdated. Companies like Amazon and Walmart have scaled back their telehealth offerings, though startups like Fabric are integrating AI to streamline both virtual and in-person services. Innovations such as holographic consultations are emerging, pointing towards a hybrid future in healthcare.

### Do US Consumers Underestimate the Potential Of Digital Wallets?
Despite the widespread use of digital wallets in the U.S., primarily for online shopping and peer-to-peer payments, most consumers are unaware of the broader functionalities these tools offer. A report by PYMNTS and Google Wallet reveals that only a small fraction of users utilize digital wallets for non-transactional purposes like storing credentials or accessing events and rewards programs. The study highlights a significant untapped potential, suggesting that digital wallets could simplify identity verification processes and offer more convenience beyond just financial transactions.

Telehealth Declines as AI and In-Person Visits Rise Post-Pandemic PYMNTS

Technological advancements are poised to significantly alleviate the workload for nurses, who are currently facing a severe global shortage. The integration of robotics and digital health technologies into healthcare practices aims at reducing monotonous tasks, enhancing remote communication, and improving patient care through innovations like automated blood drawing, AI risk assessment, and portable diagnostic tools. Technologies such as 3D printing for better communication and training using VR simulations are also boosting nursing education. While these technologies promise to augment nursing roles and improve healthcare delivery, they are not a replacement for the essential human elements of empathy and care inherent in the nursing profession.

8 Digital Health Technologies Transforming The Future Of Nurses The Medical Futurist