If you’re a healthcare provider, the easiest way to kickstart your #DigitalTransformation journey is by ditching your fax service and embracing secure e-messaging. This is one small step for providers but one giant leap for patient care.

In a 2019 study conducted by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), it was found that seven out of 10 hospitals in the USA were still relying on fax machines and phone lines to transfer and retrieve patient records or order prescriptions.

The digital transformation of healthcare in the USA faces significant gaps and challenges that hinder its progress.

#InteroperabilityGap: Establish data exchange standards to seamlessly share and integrate patient data across different systems, EHRs, and HIEs for improved care coordination and data analytics.

#InfrastructureUpgrade: Modernize healthcare infrastructure, including networks, data storage, and interoperable systems, to support scalable and reliable digital health technologies, paving the way for transformative healthcare solutions.

#UserExperience: Prioritize user-friendly design and continuously refine digital health tools to enhance usability and user satisfaction, increasing adoption rates and improving the overall patient experience.

#DataGovernance: Strengthen data security, privacy, and consent management to build patient trust and protect sensitive health information amidst rapidly evolving digital health technologies.

#HealthITWorkforce: Develop a skilled workforce proficient in health informatics, data analytics, cybersecurity, and technology integration to effectively implement digital health solutions.

#FinancialConstraints: Align financial incentives and reimbursement models to encourage investment in digital health technologies, enabling organizations to overcome financial barriers and maximize the value of their digital transformation efforts.

#EvidenceBased: Generate robust evidence through rigorous research, clinical trials, and real-world evaluations, demonstrating the effectiveness, safety, and impact of digital health interventions to gain trust and support from healthcare professionals, regulators, and payers.

Addressing these gaps requires collective efforts from healthcare providers, technology vendors, policymakers, researchers, and patient advocacy groups. Together, we can overcome challenges, drive #Innovation, and achieve a successful digital transformation in healthcare.