Communication Requirements in 5G-Enabled Healthcare Applications: Review and Considerations

Fifth generation (5G) mobile communication technology can enable novel healthcare applications and augment existing ones. However, 5G-enabled healthcare applications demand diverse technical requirements for radio communication. Knowledge of these requirements is important for developers, network providers, and regulatory authorities in the healthcare sector to facilitate safe and effective healthcare. In this paper, we review, identify, describe, and compare the requirements for communication key performance indicators in relevant healthcare use cases, including remote robotic-assisted surgery, connected ambulance, wearable and implantable devices, and service robotics for assisted living, with a focus on quantitative requirements. We also compare 5G-healthcare requirements with the current state of 5G capabilities. Finally, we identify gaps in the existing literature and highlight considerations for this space.

Automated summary

This paper reviews the key communication performance requirements for 5G-enabled healthcare applications, including remote robotic-assisted surgery, connected ambulance, wearable and implantable devices, and service robotics for assisted living, and compares them with the current state of 5G capabilities. The study identifies gaps in the existing literature and highlights considerations for this field.