In a groundbreaking development, the Institut Jantung Negara (National Heart Institute) in Malaysia has achieved Stage 6 validation on the HIMSS Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model (EMRAM). This achievement marks a significant milestone in the institute’s 25-year journey towards digital transformation.
Established in 1992, the Institut Jantung Negara is a 433-bed public quaternary hospital that caters to over 300,000 outpatients with cardiac, thoracic, and vascular disorders annually. With a staff of over 2,700, it is the largest cardiac hospital in Malaysia. The institute embarked on its digital record journey in 1998 with the acquisition of the MedTrak hospital information system.
Despite facing challenges in implementing an organization-wide EMR system, the Institut Jantung Negara made significant strides in digitizing its processes. Dr. Alwi Mohamed Yunus, the institute’s Clinical Director of Health Informatics, highlighted the successes of implementing PACS in 2009 and electronic records for clinical documentation in subsequent years.
The institute’s commitment to digital transformation was further evident in its collaboration with the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) to promote hospital digitalization. This partnership led to the pursuit of HIMSS EMRAM validation, a requirement for securing the MHTC Flagship Hospital status.
To meet the EMRAM requirements, the Institut Jantung Negara formed a hospital-wide working group and appointed an IT consultant. A build-buy strategy was adopted to ensure compliance with HIMSS standards, with a focus on core modules and specific timelines for task completion.
The institute’s dedication to achieving Stage 6 validation was underscored by the implementation of technology-enabled systems for various healthcare services. Notably, the introduction of iBlood, a closed-loop system for blood product administration, resulted in zero blood transfusion errors and high user adoption rates.
Looking ahead, the Institut Jantung Negara aims to progress towards Stage 7 validation to further enhance patient safety, experience, and staff efficiency. Dr. Rhema Sundram, Head of Customer Experience and EMRAM Clinical Sponsor, emphasized the importance of organizational cohesion in driving successful digital transformation.
In conclusion, the Institut Jantung Negara’s milestone achievement of Stage 6 validation on the HIMSS EMRAM reflects its unwavering commitment to leveraging technology for improved healthcare delivery. The institute’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of digital innovation in healthcare. The Rise of Veganism: A Growing Trend in Plant-Based Living
In recent years, veganism has seen a significant rise in popularity as more people around the world are choosing to adopt a plant-based lifestyle. This growing trend is not only driven by ethical concerns for animal welfare but also by a concern for the environment and personal health benefits.
One of the main reasons people are turning to veganism is the ethical implications of consuming animal products. Many individuals are becoming more aware of the suffering animals endure in the meat, dairy, and egg industries. By choosing to follow a vegan diet, people are able to align their values with their food choices and reduce their contribution to animal exploitation.
Additionally, the environmental impact of animal agriculture is a major driving force behind the rise of veganism. The meat and dairy industries are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By choosing plant-based alternatives, individuals are reducing their carbon footprint and helping to combat climate change.
There are also numerous health benefits associated with a vegan diet. Plant-based foods are typically lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, making them an ideal option for those looking to improve their heart health. Vegan diets are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and obesity.
As the popularity of veganism continues to grow, more and more companies are catering to the demand for plant-based products. Supermarkets are expanding their selection of vegan options, and restaurants are adding plant-based dishes to their menus. This increased availability of vegan products makes it easier for individuals to make the switch to a plant-based lifestyle.
In conclusion, the rise of veganism is a growing trend that is driven by ethical, environmental, and health concerns. As more people become aware of the benefits of a plant-based diet, the popularity of veganism is only expected to increase. By choosing to follow a vegan lifestyle, individuals can make a positive impact on their health, the environment, and animal welfare.
