Improving Connected Care: Overcoming Challenges in Healthcare Technology Adoption
Health systems have made significant progress in achieving interoperability among medical devices, electronic health records, and other IT platforms. However, providers have been slower to adopt these technologies than anticipated, which has impeded the widespread success of improving patient outcomes, according to recent research from the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions.
The key to increasing adoption of connected care lies in closer collaboration between medical device companies, providers, and health IT vendors to address specific pain points, as outlined by researchers.
Challenges in Adoption
Health systems are seeking tangible evidence of real-world effectiveness and financial viability before investing in medical devices and technologies. This cautious approach stems from the desire for robust validation of the solutions they implement.
While the vision of a healthcare ecosystem where cutting-edge technologies seamlessly enhance clinical practices is compelling, many providers are exercising prudence in adopting these innovations. The research conducted by Deloitte highlighted the need for aligning expectations between tech executives and healthcare leaders to drive successful adoption.
Providers face challenges such as demonstrating end-user value, integrating new technologies with existing workflows, and budget constraints. The complexity of integrating connected devices into data systems emerged as a significant friction point for 92% of provider IT leaders.
Addressing the Disconnect
The research revealed a misalignment between medical device companies and providers in understanding the challenges faced by healthcare organizations. Issues such as lack of interoperability with electronic health records, data privacy concerns, and integration with existing workflows were cited as major obstacles.
To bridge this gap, Deloitte recommended that medical device companies collaborate with providers, patients, and health tech vendors to gather real-world evidence, prioritize end-user needs in product development, and establish robust security architectures and governance structures.
Unlocking the Potential of Connected Care
Investments in connected care technologies, particularly IoT devices, have expanded the scope of telehealth and transformed patient care through remote monitoring and hospital-at-home initiatives. By leveraging IoT devices for continuous patient monitoring, healthcare providers can reduce in-person visits and enhance chronic disease management.
However, the integration of data from remote patient monitoring devices with EHRs remains a challenge, complicating care coordination and patient management. Healthcare organizations must invest in updated IT infrastructure to maximize the benefits of IoT in patient care.
Conclusion
As the healthcare industry continues to embrace connected care technologies, addressing interoperability challenges and prioritizing end-user value are crucial for driving adoption and realizing the full potential of these innovations. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders and focusing on seamless integration, healthcare organizations can overcome barriers to connected care adoption and deliver improved outcomes for patients.
Written by: Healthcare IT News Team
