While the Cloud is widely recognized, simply knowing about its popularity isn’t enough reason to transition your healthcare practice data to a cloud solution immediately. Are you aware of the tangible benefits that the Cloud offers to the healthcare industry?
The Cloud plays a significant role for both healthcare providers and patients. However, you might still be skeptical, viewing it as a passing trend rather than a lasting change.
That perspective would be mistaken. The healthcare cloud computing market is projected to reach a value of up to $15.5 billion in the next five years.
In short, the Cloud is here to stay.
This is why it’s crucial to understand its advantages for you and other professionals in the healthcare sector.
To begin, let’s examine the Cloud more broadly…
What Is The Cloud (And What Does It Do?)
Essentially, the Cloud is a collection of technologies that provides access to computing resources like storage and processing power. This data is stored in data centers worldwide, with the specific location depending on your cloud service provider.
Why Consider The Cloud?
Computing Power: The Cloud can harness tens of thousands of CPUs, allowing for extensive data analytics and handling nearly any ad-hoc queries you might have.
Predictable Costs: Cloud services operate on a subscription model, offering the advantage of low-cost, low-risk opt-in with a straightforward, predictable monthly fee.
Scalability: Cloud services can expand or contract to meet your current demands, making them ideal for practices of any size that may experience growth or reduction over time.
Real-Time Collaboration: Cloud technology enables your staff to work simultaneously on the same project, maximizing productivity without waiting for one another to complete their tasks.
Remote Work Capability: This feature of the Cloud allows you and your employees to work remotely, providing the flexibility needed for a better work-life balance.
How Does The Cloud Benefit Healthcare Professionals?
Eliminates Onsite Infrastructure: Hosting your data and applications in the Cloud simplifies management and enhances collaboration. There’s no need to maintain costly onsite servers anymore. Transitioning to the Cloud allows you to outsource infrastructure needs to data centers, enjoying updated and optimized IT resources for a predictable monthly fee.
Harnesses Industry-Specific Tools: With SaaS solutions tailored for healthcare, barriers to entry have significantly decreased. Examples include ERP and EMR solutions, which have improved with cloud integration, offering reliable and redundant systems that meet modern patient expectations.
Advantages include:
- Scalability to match demand fluctuations.
- Web access to data without local storage.
- Secure remote access to applications and data.
- Mobile access via the Internet.
- Integration with a broader ecosystem of services.
Cloud services enhance treatment plans through data analysis and allow patients to collaborate with their doctors. Sophisticated analytics improve patient assessments and management, while cloud-based tools help mitigate medical errors and improve outcomes.
Cloud-based healthcare IT systems promote interoperability, allowing easy and secure information sharing.
Empowers Your Patients: The Cloud also enhances patient engagement. Patients now actively share information with providers, aiding in decision-making and diagnosis. Cloud technology supports collaboration and information sharing, empowering patients to manage their health via computers, smartphones, and wearable devices.
Still Confused About The Cloud?
To fully leverage the Cloud, healthcare organizations should develop a strategy aligned with their goals. As technology advances, cloud solutions will continue to enhance patient care capabilities. If you’re uncertain about where to start, consult with an IT specialist for expert guidance.
