By Lauren Anderson (COO)
Technology is no longer just a possible option that would be “nice to have” for healthcare providers- it’s quickly becoming a necessity in the healthcare industry. Providers that fail to implement technology in their daily processes are falling behind in both operations and modes of treatments and losing favor with both current and potential patients.
Some of the most common and necessary technologies, which can also be the toughest to effectively implement- are technologies that automate processes.
Technology is rapidly automating processes in the healthcare industry. Automation is common in all industries- but it has been slower to take root and spread throughout healthcare until recently, perhaps due to the complexity of patient safety and standards of care that are there to ensure patient care isn’t compromised; Yet it has been consistently shown to increase efficiency, productivity, and patient engagement, as well as provide data that can be used to both optimize current processes as well as improve them over time.
As the vital benefits of healthcare automation become more well-known and practiced, so does the willingness of more healthcare providers to embrace these new technologies in their own organizations.
It can be a challenge to automate processes that have been in place for many years, but leaders are adopting new technology and integrating it into everyday operations by taking a solution-oriented approach that meets employers, employees, and patients needs.
Here’s how forward-thinking health systems are embracing new technology, and the best approach to implementation to ensure success and continued growth:
Strategic implementation is a gradual process that only happens with careful, focused planning. Make sure your strategy has a clear path and is centered around consistency and improved care, outline a timeline and stick to it as much as possible, and make sure everyone involved is aptly educated and informed.
No approach is complete without markers that show the current state of your application and maintain progress. Set specific goals that will ensure you are staying on track and maintaining consistency and affordability. They should be attainable, steadily progress, and all work towards your end goal- successful integration
Regardless of careful planning, no big changes can be made without a few bumps. The best way to ensure your strategy has the best chance of success is to maintain a positive approach and keep morale high. Employees should understand how the process will benefit the entire organization and be encouraged as much as possible to make sure each step is smoothly and confidently completed.
By implementing these solution-oriented approaches, forward thinking health systems can achieve greater affordability, safe and improved care, facilitate user engagement, and individualize care through new patient-centered approaches, powered by technology.