Cloud computing is a growing trend in most industries, however, in healthcare, it is growing rapidly. This is largely because it not only helps to properly secure patient data, but also bolster the transparency between healthcare institutions and patients.
How is the cloud transforming healthcare?
The cloud is offering the healthcare industry an opportunity to create a safer environment with improved services, easier sharing of information, enhanced operational efficiency, and of course, streamlined costs.
When the sharing of medical records is instant and secure and the back-end operations can be streamlined, it leaves more room for healthcare professionals to focus on the patient – rather than the tedious and time consuming administrative tasks that they are often lumbered with. Let’s take a closer look…
Security
When the proper safeguards are in place, cloud servers will ultimately increase the overall security of a healthcare provider and their critical data.
Particularly in the case of on-site solutions, if equipment fails then healthcare companies may lose all of their data and applications which can be devastating – not to mention the danger it can pose to your more vulnerable patients.
Affordability
As cloud computing operates under a subscription model, healthcare providers will be able to save money by not having to purchase expensive equipment and systems on top of being able to reduce costs by utilising their cloud service provider’s valuable resources.
Scalability
Cloud computing is all about using and paying only for what you need. This offers great flexibility – particularly when it comes to scaling your operations. As your patient base grows and the need for greater data storage solutions increases, you can expand your cloud computing requirements accordingly.
The same applies for SaaS (software as a service) and other modern solutions that will evolve alongside you as your healthcare business grows.
Data Storage
The average healthcare provider deals with an immense amount of digital information, from electronic medical records and patient portals, to mobile apps and big data analytics. By utilising cloud computing they are able to keep all of that data stored remotely and securely while simultaneously avoiding the extra costs and responsibilities of maintaining their own physical servers.
AI and Machine Learning
The rate at which AI and machine learning is developing is impressive. In a world where data is king and the need for enhanced operational efficiencies is becoming more and more important, being able to integrate AI and ML into your cloud computing strategy will be transformative.
For example, healthcare providers will be better able to handle everything from managing mass amounts of data and streamlining administrative tasks, to processing an increase in patient enquiries and automating the appointment booking process.
Connectivity
As more innovative equipment and medical devices are introduced, connectivity is becoming a growing issue. With cloud computing however, being able to promote interoperability between connected medical devices and the various systems and applications that are used to store patient data will be the new standard, effectively adapting to an ever-changing landscape.
Final thoughts
As you can see, it’s an exciting time for the healthcare industry. If you wish to remain ahead of the curve and continue to provide your patients with the very best care, we highly recommend that you explore some reputable, Australian cloud providers in order to identify which one will be able to help you take things to the next level.
