The Covid-19 pandemic changed healthcare trends in the United States. Hospitals and healthcare provide started investing in digital technology solutions to maintain a steady revenue stream and keep seeing patients. The global pandemic also posed staffing as a major challenge in the healthcare sector. World Health Organization reports that there will be a shortage of 9.9 million healthcare workers around the world by 2030. This reflects that digitization and technology will be used hand in hand to offer the most effective and prompt treatment options to patients.
Top 5 Technological Trends in 2021
- Cybersecurity – Cybersecurity and data security are the most monitored healthcare IT trends in 2021. As more and more data is shared digitally via Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Software solutions hackers are inclined to hack the healthcare infrastructure. Pfizer and BioNTech revealed that hackers targeted vaccine data. Healthcare organizations are finding out proactive ways to stay prepared and protect their infrastructure from cybercrimes and ransomware attacks. An increase in breaches in 2020 and 2021 signifies that hospitals need to invest properly in cybersecurity.
- Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) – The adaption of IoT devices indicates this is one of the most looked out healthcare trends as it can help to reduce costs. A Goldman Sachs report estimated $300 billion could be saved through IoT by providing improved ways for practicing medicine and patient care. IoT can also enhance efficiency levels as workflows can be optimized.
- Interoperability – EHR software solutions have now been deployed by most hospitals and healthcare organizations in the US. The increase in investments in digitization reflects that interoperability of healthcare data is a major trend. Interoperability options in software systems facilitate the seamless transfer of data between different stakeholders in the healthcare sector and can thus promote care coordination between physicians for better treatment options.
- Predictive Analytics and Big Data – Predictive analysis helps to alert clinicians before a serious situation arises which can help prevent visits to the ER. According to a survey conducted by the Society of Actuaries, 42% of the healthcare organizations saw a boost in patient satisfaction and 39% revealed that they saved costs. Predictive analytics turns data into helpful insights for doctors.
- Customized Mobile Apps – Globally, there are 5.5 billion smartphones, and creating healthcare mobile apps for patients offers convenience to them. Through integrated EMR software systems a customized smartphone app helps patients stay connected with their healthcare providers without any hitches and can also feel involved in their healthcare journey which has resulted to improve patient outcome levels.
Final Takeaway
The healthcare sector will see a rise in technology and digital solutions as it helps to streamline clinical workflows and also enhance healthcare services that are provided to patients. Patients also demand convenience and better diagnosis and treatment options which is why providers are leveraging the power of AI, machine learning, and remote patient monitoring to enhance patient care.
