Provider engagement and integration of mobile health technologies will continue to increase in 2015, according to Rich Scarfo, director of the annual mHealth Summit and vice president of the Personal Connected Health Alliance.

Scarfo cites advances in technology to support clinical workflow, improved interoperability between patient-generated data and EMRs and the adoption of mobile and connected health tools by pharma as part of the reason for this trend.

“I believe we will also see mHealth devices become even more ubiquitous, driven by non-health-related consumer companies - whom we can learn a great deal from in terms of making health and wellness a part of our day-to-day lives," he said.

As he's done every year since it began, Scarfo oversees the mHealth Summit, to be held Dec. 7-11 at the Gaylord National Resort and Conference Center just outside Washington D.C. Billed as the largest mobile health event in the world, it's in its sixth year, and the first under the auspices of the Personal Connected Health Alliance, an international non-profit organization established this past year with HIMSS and the Continua Health Alliance to represent the consumer voice in personal connected health.

In an interview with mHealth News, Scarfo talked about next week's event:

Q: What are some of the major themes at this year's mHealth Summit?

A: The mHealth Summit is truly a reflection of what's happening in the industry and, importantly, how our industry is advancing innovation, the application of mobile and connected health technologies and the tangible, measurable results being achieved.

This year we have visionary keynotes, thought-provoking sessions and an interactive exhibit floor that highlights not just innovation, but how that innovation is being integrated into care delivery today. The 2014 mHealth Summit is focused on real-world applications and results – from improved engagement and adherence to increased patient-provider communication, greater access to care in countries around the world and how empowered individuals are better managing their own health and wellness.

Attendees will learn how successful mHealth tools and programs are developed, best practices for implementation and the clinical results proving the value of technology-enabled health and wellness. They will meet the thought leaders, healthcare providers and innovative companies who are making it all happen.

Q: What has surprised you the most this past year in the mHealth sector?

A: The “Internet of Things” is real and it's happening now. What that means for the mHealth Summit is that we have companies outside of the traditional health tech market who are embracing mHealth and making a huge impact of the future of this industry.

Major consumer goods companies, leading pharmacy chains, consumer electronics giants and pharmaceutical and life sciences companies all have a big role at this year's summit. At the same time, healthcare providers are leading the clinical charge, implementing mobile and connected health programs and defining what is needed for the widespread adoption of these technologies. It is an incredibly exciting time in our industry, and that is reflected in our program this year.

The mHealth Summit 2014 takes place at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. Register here.