Over the last few years, digital transformation has hit a speed boost. In business, necessity-driven changes accelerated the conversion rate, and cloud computing capabilities made it all possible.
Even in industries like healthcare that are typically slower to adopt new technologies, there was a noticeable shift to a digital-first approach. A Deloitte Insights survey indicates that 50% of healthcare executives expect one-quarter of all outpatient, preventive, and long-term care services will be virtual by 2040.
The slow healthcare roll towards total digital transformation, including accessible virtual care and on-demand information through patient-facing portals, has been impeded by compliance concerns with important data privacy legislation and the omnipresent importance of life-and-death consequences in healthcare.
The entire healthcare industry is facing increasing pressure to compete. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the impact of uncertainty and the effects of rapid change throughout the industry. You probably remember hearing stories about how stressed and under-resourced healthcare facilities were during the height of the pandemic.
The decision for cloud computing technology adoption is timely.
Cloud computing is an enabler; it’s a gateway to a different approach to tech-enablement. Like flipping on a switch, organizations can suddenly go all-in on digital transformation instead of dipping their toes with compartmentalized technologies.
The term ‘cloud computing” refers to how (and where) data files are stored. Traditionally, organizations would house their servers–a room or building full of high-powered computers that held all the files needed to operate software programs and the patient or consumer data needed to conduct business.
Cloud computing puts all the data stored on traditional physical servers in the digital world. The cloud” is simply the internet. Physical storage still exists–but it’s fragmented, living in different locations worldwide. Organizations no longer need a physical connection to their data storage using cloud technology. Everything from software to sales sheets can be stored and retrieved anywhere, anytime from the cloud.
It gives rise to the everything-as-a-service” technology model. Instead of an organization spending hundreds of thousands to purchase software files, only to purchase newer versions with more capabilities a few years later, paying a small monthly access fee for continuously updated software is becoming more common.
A SaaS model has enormous potential for cost savings. And organizations never have to worry about falling behind in technological innovation simply because they didn’t invest in upgrading to a newer software release.
The benefits of cloud-enablement include:
From artificial intelligence (AI) to machine learning (ML), the cloud-enabled business model allows any organization to do more, know more, and be more straightforward. And in healthcare, that means better patient care from start to finish.
Do you work for a healthcare organization? The idea of embracing the next evolution in digital transformation with cloud computing can be enticing. Cloud enablement can set your organization on the path to a quicker, more efficient digital transformation, resulting in a more substantial, more adaptable business. But your decision should be strategic. Here’s what to consider before making a significant investment in cloud enablement.
In adopting cloud computing for your organization, steer clear of the herd mentality and invest in comprehending how this will significantly alter the scenario from current capabilities.
You will need a plan to integrate legacy technologies.
That’s right, cloud-enablement might speed things up, but it’s not an all-or-nothing endeavor. Carefully review your business goals and operating procedures and intentionally choose a strategy for your digital transformation.
It would help if you articulated technology investments to business goals.
A simplified IT infrastructure doesn’t mean guaranteed efficiency. One of the singular methods to improve productivity is to identify how the steps in your digital transformation translate to achieving your specific business goals.
The biggest concern in the healthcare industry is HIPAA compliance. Remaining compliant with the Healthcare Information Privacy Act is one of the biggest reasons the healthcare industry has typically been slow to adopt cloud computing solutions.
Every organization is responsible for ensuring the security of confidential and valuable data like patient billing details and sensitive medical diagnosis and care information. HIPAA violations can be expensive– up to $ 50K per offense. Add that financial deterrent to the bad press that a breach would cost; a single incident can put a healthcare organization deep in the red.
It’s prudent to be cautious with cloud computing solutions–when you’re sharing data across the internet, there is inherently more risk. The good news is that secure, HIPAA-compliant cloud solutions do exist. Healthcare facilities can confidently embrace digital transformation when the cloud solution is safe and protected by layers of appropriate security measures on both sides of every digital transaction.
Again, a simplified IT infrastructure doesn’t mean there is no need for IT support. Adopting new, unfamiliar technologies supports the argument for enhancing centralized IT control. Your organization should have a robust process to determine which features and methods link to the cloud before adopting a cloud computing solution. This strong governance within your organization will ensure that you maintain transparency and alignment with business goals and security needs.
Cloud computing is transforming how businesses approach digital integration. While healthcare organizations have a lot at stake, this technology can provide the automation and flexibility you need the most while still ensuring secure, compliant IT management. Open the door to a new future full of limitless opportunities with a cloud computing solution to speed up your digital transformation–putting your business at the front of the line against your competitors.
Learn more about what’s possible with a custom cloud computing solution from Datalysys. We’re your data-driven partner for capable tech enablement designed to meet your needs.