What the recent pandemic has highlighted are the service gaps that can occur for traditional healthcare sectors. COVID-19 limited access to care, and in response, IT responded. The traditional healthcare service providers are starting to modernize their business model and leveraging digital solutions to enhance the interaction between consumers, payers, and providers. The feasibility and acceptance of remote healthcare will continue to advance and drive efficiencies. You can expect additional digital disruption in this space.
Technology-enabled care (“TEC”) is emerging as an integral part of the healthcare solution. TEC refers to the convergence of health technology, digital media, and mobile devices. The rise in TEC requires providers to redefine staff roles and responsibilities. Traditionally, those roles were defined by the physical location of the practice and in a face-to-face setting with the patient. As TEC services are adopted more widely, those responsibilities will shift, saving, time and resources for both provider, employee, and consumer. The adoption of new digital processes in the delivery of care will offer challenges in cybersecurity and health data privacy. New protocols will need to be adopted and both employees and customers will need training and education to interact without compromising security.
Being able to access medical information quickly and easily in one location is vital for consumers, who have become accustom to digital availability. Health systems that are investing in new technology will attract patients who want their medical data accessible and secure.
Patients recognize how valuable their time is and seek providers who offer convenience and expediency. In fact, a recent survey showed more than 30% of respondents were willing to pay more in order to get appointments booked faster.
With the proliferation of apps that offer health tracking and coaching, along with virtual consultations, many experts believe health care will become more decentralized and less personalized. With the widespread adoption of telemedicine, consumers’ reliance on past providers will become less relevant in the consultation process.
Is your practice moving in the right direction? Remember, digital solutions are driving healthcare forward, don’t be left behind!
