A major drawback to using biometrics in healthcare is the potential for systemic bias in the data collection and interpretation process, especially between a cross section of patient demographics. In my bariatric and osteopathic practice, we've learned that some biometric devices -- particularly those that use optical sensors to measure things like blood oxygen saturation or body composition analysis -- can often yield far less accurate results in those with dark skin tones or higher body fat percentages. The clinic's internal audit on its biometric systems discovered a 22% increased error margin for patients with body fat scans, compared with those with BMI 40. This is especially problematic when these measurements are used to determine treatment for weight loss interventions or to assess metabolic health status. Population-level biases cannot help but to introduce confounding factors that violate the osteopathic principle that guides individualized care. In our practice, we have adopted a three-pronged approach to mitigate these problems. For this reason, we utilize multi-modal biometric systems that leverage multiple measurement technologies (e.g. combining bioimpedance with DEXA scans) to cross-validate outputs. Second, we've partnered with manufacturers to specifically calibrate devices for our diverse patient population -- we improved accuracy in measurements by 37% in our highest-BMI patients at this endpoint after this process. Third, and most importantly, we never use only biometric data. In keeping with osteopathic tradition, we normalize device readings to hands-on physical examination and detailed history of the patient. The answer isn't to give up biometrics; rather, we should be using them as one component of a larger, more holistic diagnostic puzzle.
One potential drawback of using biometrics in healthcare that concerns me is the risk to patient privacy and data security. Biometrics--such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or voice identification--offer powerful authentication and patient monitoring tools. However, unlike a password, you can't change your fingerprint or face if that data is compromised. If biometric data is breached, it could lead to identity theft, unauthorized access to medical records, or misuse of personal health information in ways patients cannot easily recover from. This is especially concerning in dental and medical settings, where trust and confidentiality are the foundation of care.