Senior living and the healthcare industry, in general, have embraced cloud technology to benefit both staff and patients. Experts are now touting its increasing role in improving the patient experience in particular.
The demand for cloud technology is expected to rise, with the global healthcare cloud computing market predicted to exceed $55 billion by 2025, according to Global Market Insights.
The technology isn’t without its challenges, which include data privacy, integrity and security concerns.
There are four ways that cloud tools can be used to enhance the patient experience, according to HealthTech magazine. First, cloud data allows senior living operators to store, manage and share patient data securely. Fortunately, cloud technology is scalable, helping manage massive amounts of data while keeping it secure, experts note. Senior living and healthcare in general are one of the biggest victims of cyberattacks, as cyber criminals steal patient and employee data and use it in identity theft and other fraud schemes, making security a pressing issue.
Secondly, cloud-based tools help senior living and other healthcare providers support advanced analysis of patient data. AI tools let caregivers automatically complete clinical notes at the point of care and access other relevant patient information faster.
Thirdly, cloud data allows for better and faster communication among staff and patients, helping staff deliver better patient care.
Finally, cloud-based tools help protect patient information and privacy, with security features like encryption, firewalls and regular backups.
In addition to cloud-based tools, cybersecurity insurance providers are getting better at both predicting and protecting healthcare against these threats, marketplace experts say. Senior living administrators should take note of the costs associated with cyber attacks, such as hiring forensic experts or paying attorney’s fees as a results of any potential lawsuits or fines, all which can quickly add up, as Scott Code, vice president, LeadingAge Center for Aging Services Technologies, recently told McKnights.
