Implementing the right IT solutions can make your clinic or private practice more efficient, secure, and competitive. It can also help you save money in the long run. However, adopting new non-medical technology in healthcare isn’t always a smooth ride, as you’re likely to encounter the following challenges:
Upfront cost
IT solutions for healthcare, whether in the form of equipment, services, or software, cost money. As many of these do not come cheap, you have to be very careful about which you use or implement. Otherwise, you risk wasting valuable resources or compromising the safety of your staff and patients.
Take security solutions, for example. With healthcare providers being among the top targets for cyberattacks in 2021, it’s crucial that you invest in data security. However, the anti-malware tools you can download for free online won't cut it, as they often lack key functionalities. You need top-notch, full-featured solutions designed to combat multiple evolving cyberthreats, but you may have to spend top dollar for these.
IT solutions for healthcare, whether in the form of equipment, services, or software, cost money.
Solution
The market offers several varieties of the same technology at different price points. One way to address the issue of cost is by investing in IT tools that offer a balance between cost and functionality. Or instead of purchasing these tools upfront, you may take advantage of other available payment options. A software subscription model, for instance, will let you enjoy a service at a lower and more manageable — albeit recurring — cost than purchasing a license upfront.
Alternatively, you can partner with third-party companies that offer services similar or related to the technologies you require. A managed IT services provider (MSP) like Healthy IT, for example, can recommend IT tools that fit your organization’s needs and budget. Services such as 24/7 network monitoring help ensure the security and integrity of your healthcare practice’s data.
Learning curve
Before implementing any new IT solution, you must bear several things in mind. First, your staff must have a thorough understanding of all the IT tools they use for their job. Insufficient knowledge may result in negative consequences, such as record-keeping errors or even data breaches. Second, most healthcare professionals have packed schedules, so your medical staff likely won’t have plenty of time to spare for training on the use of new IT tools or processes. Finally, extended periods of training reduce your staff’s productivity, which, at worst, may mean reduced time devoted to tending to the needs of patients.
Solution
Careful selection is key to addressing this challenge. When searching for new IT tools and services, consider features and ease of use. Read reviews by industry experts and previous users. If you have acquaintances at other clinics and practices, inquire about their experience with the solutions you’re looking into or ask for recommendations on possible options.
Then again, in lieu of adopting new technologies for specific processes, you can outsource that process to a reliable third party. For instance, you can partner with a data backup service provider instead of investing in your own backup infrastructure. This way, the process is in capable hands, resulting in minimal errors. Furthermore, your medical staff are free to focus on what they do best, which is providing care to patients.
Compliance
Healthcare organizations are obligated by law to uphold standards and follow regulations to ensure the security and well-being of their patients and staff. A good example of this is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which lays down rules created to protect the privacy of patients. Handling patient data using processes, services, or tools that are not HIPAA-compliant can result in penalties and other repercussions.
Solution
During your research, check if the solution you’re looking to adopt meets healthcare industry standards and helps you comply with regulations. Collaborate with your IT team on this matter, as they are likely to know which tools are vetted for organizations like yours. Or you could seek the services of third parties who specialize in technologies that support the operations of healthcare providers.
MSPs that specialize in healthcare data management, for instance, help their clients implement technologies and processes that are compliant with HIPAA and other industry regulations. They are knowledgeable and updated on everything compliance-related, making them an excellent partner for healthcare providers looking to provide the kind of care and service that meets stringent standards.
Implementing new solutions for your healthcare practice has its share of challenges, but it’s possible to overcome these hurdles with proper research and the assistance of experts. Healthy IT’s team of experts will be more than happy to assist and offer recommendations on technologies that can help you grow and serve your patients better. Schedule a free consultation today.