HEALTHCARE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TRENDS

HEALTHCARE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TRENDS

The global healthcare landscape underwent significant disruption due to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a rapid adoption of technology. This crisis triggered an unprecedented demand for digital transformation to cater to the evolving needs of patients. “Digital health encompasses various technologies such as information technology, wearable devices, telehealth, mobile health, and telemedicine for managing health and promoting well-being” (Williams, 2022). Additionally, healthcare is witnessing the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality, automated IV pumps, portable monitors, and smart beds.

Challenges in Embracing Technology in Healthcare

Despite the evident benefits, the incorporation of technology in healthcare comes with its own set of challenges. These include concerns related to security, integration, cost, data privacy, effectiveness, and the regulation of digital technologies. With the increasing popularity of mobile health apps, healthcare professionals must possess the knowledge and skills to evaluate and recommend suitable digital tools (Skiba, 2017). Users also need to be proficient in using these apps effectively. To leverage technology, users must possess a compatible smartphone for video conferencing and a reliable internet connection.

Benefits of Mobile Devices and Apps

Mobile devices and apps offer numerous advantages to both healthcare providers and patients. Providers can access valuable tools such as drug reference guides, medical calculators, electronic prescribing, coding and billing assistance, and even conduct hearing and vision tests through specialized apps.

Healthcare Technology Transformations

Some institutions, like those using EPIC, have facilitated instant access to patient information via mobile devices by partnering with tech giants like Apple. This integration has enabled healthcare professionals to streamline their workflows and provide more efficient care. Effective communication and collaboration are vital in healthcare, and mobile devices provide multiple channels for this, including voice and video calls, text messaging, email, multimedia messaging, and video conferencing (Ventola, 2014).

Benefits of Mobile Health Apps for Patients

Patients can also harness the power of mobile apps to track vital signs, set medication reminders, monitor blood sugar levels, connect with their healthcare providers for online counseling, and more. The advantages extend to prescription alerts, medication adherence, immediate access to care, convenience, and enhanced monitoring. For instance, the mySugr app caters to diabetic patients, offering features like blood glucose reminders, A1C level estimation, bolus calculators, automatic data imports from blood glucose meters, and detailed reports for sharing with healthcare providers. However, the use of mobile health apps comes with its own set of risks, including concerns about patient privacy, mobile screen size limitations, internet connectivity issues, user proficiency, and resistance from technologically inexperienced healthcare providers. It is crucial for patients to safeguard their smartphones, especially considering that some apps require monthly or yearly subscriptions, making it essential for providers to ensure affordability before recommending them.

Promising Impact of Telehealth in Nursing Practice

Telehealth has emerged as a promising innovation in nursing practice. It enables providers to connect with patients through audio and video technology, offering care and resources to those residing in rural or underserved areas. This approach reduces wait times, patient travel, and enhances access to high-quality care. Telehealth also plays a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes. Video conferencing facilitates patient compliance with follow-up appointments, enables patients to contact their providers regarding side effects or prescription renewals, eliminates barriers to mental health treatment, and supports post-hospitalization follow-ups. Patients can comfortably voice their concerns and complaints without the distractions of a clinical office environment. Additionally, telehealth safeguards potentially contagious patients from exposing others to infectious diseases, ensuring the well-being of immunocompromised individuals (Phillips et al., 2020).

In conclusion, healthcare is undergoing a profound transformation through the adoption of digital technologies. While these innovations bring remarkable benefits, they also pose challenges related to security, integration, and user proficiency. Mobile devices and apps empower both healthcare providers and patients, revolutionizing communication and care delivery. Telehealth holds immense promise in nursing practice, offering improved patient outcomes, convenience, and accessibility. However, it is essential to address the associated risks and ensure the responsible use of these technologies to deliver high-quality healthcare services.

References:

– Skiba, D. (2017). Evaluation tools to appraise social media and mobile applications. Informatics, 4(3), 32–40.

– Ventola C. L. (2014). Mobile devices and apps for health care professionals: uses and benefits. P & T: A Peer-Reviewed Journal for Formulary Management, 39(5), 356–364.

– Phillips, T., Munn, A., & George, T. (2020, May 6). Assessing the impact of telehealth objective structured clinical examination (teleOSCE) on student competencies. Nurse Educator, 45(5), 292-296.

– Williams, N. (2022, March 22). How has the COVID-19 Pandemic Impacted the Adoption of Digital Health Technology? News-Medical.Net. Retrieved from https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-has-the-COVID-19-Pandemic-Impacted-the-Adoption-of-Digital-Health-Technology.aspx