Consumer health care in the United States has gone digital. More than 7 in 10 Americans now use health-related apps and nearly two-thirds use health-related devices, according to the latest Digital Health Trends study from Reach3 Insights.
"Digital health tools are becoming deeply integrated into how people manage their daily lives," said Christine Nguyen, vice president of the strategic insights consulting firm. "Consumers increasingly describe these tools as part of their routines, motivation and peace of mind."
The research found that many Americans rely on digital health tools to track sleep, activity, stress and other biometric indicators. In qualitative responses, many participants said not having these tools to monitor habits, maintain routines and manage their well-being would negatively affect their health and routines. The study also highlights other emerging digital health trends:
- A combined 88% of Americans say they want either more technology or the same amount of technology involved in health and wellness management over the next 5 to 10 years.
- Usage of holistic wearables increased from 20% in 2024 to 24 percent in 2026, while fitness-oriented wearables use fell from 28% to 22%, reflecting growing consumer interest in tracking beyond physical activity.
- Future interest in smart rings increased from 34% in 2024 to 39% in 2026, while smart glasses rose from 16% to 21%, signaling a continued appetite for emerging digital health technologies.
- Among Gen Z consumers, fertility and women's health apps ranked as the second-most-used category at 38%, ahead of sleep monitoring, mental health and nutrition apps.
- Interest in some digital health services that surged during the pandemic appears to be cooling, with telehealth interest declining from 48% in 2024 to 41% in 2026. Online pharmacy and DNA testing services also saw year-over-year declines.
The qualitative findings also revealed strong emotional connections to digital health tools. One Gen Z participant shared that losing access to health apps and devices would reduce "peace of mind" around managing health concerns, while another described the experience as "losing a part of my routine."
"By using AI-accelerated, conversational research techniques, marketers can create a more natural environment for discussions around sensitive health-related topics and help uncover the emotions and motivations shaping these (and future) behaviors," Nguyen said.
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