While many healthcare organizations still rely largely on hardware-based technologies, cloud-based solutions are rapidly growing in popularity. Computerworld's Tech Forecast 2016 survey found that 48 percent of respondents plan to invest more heavily in cloud computing and 16 percent plan to pull back on hardware-related investments.
There are definite benefits linked to cloud technology. Here are five of those benefits for physicians interested in implementing a cloud-based speech recognition solution.
1. Lower upfront investment
Traditionally, speech recognition solutions could cost physicians thousands of dollars. The software packages can be expensive and bulky, necessitating additional hardware purchases to accommodate the massive files. All of which could add up very, very quickly.
As cloud-based platforms have evolved, you can now find a reliable speech recognition solution that requires only a monthly fee. With no upfront investment required, the financial pressure is eliminated for small- to medium-sized physician practices.
2. Fewer IT worries
Using a cloud-based solution can mean fewer IT worries for busy practices, freeing up time to focus on patient care. System maintenance, including critical security patches and other updates, are initiated automatically by the cloud provider. And if you do have any issues with the software, most providers offer a dedicated tech support helpline to walk you through any hiccups.
In addition, a speech recognition solution that easily integrates into your practice workflow can help reduce the clinical documentation burden created by EMRs too.
3. Simplified disaster recovery
Healthcare providers are reliant on data — not only to treat patients, but also for billing, research, and referrals. Because of this, data must be protected at all costs. Between natural disasters, accidents, and the growing list of cyberattacks and breaches, it's imperative to have a solid disaster recovery plan in place.
When your data is stored and backed-up in the cloud, it's already off-site, which is a major component of any disaster recovery plan. Retrieving that data may be easier too, in part, because you'll have the added expertise of the cloud provider as well.
4. Easier collaboration
Cloud-based speech solutions require only a compatible device (laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc.) and an internet connection for operation. Physicians — as well as other providers and members of the care team — can access the application regardless of their locations, thereby improving collaboration, workflows, and potentially continuity of care efforts. Greater accessibility and convenience may even increase physician satisfaction — a number that has continued to fall lower and lower in recent years.
5. Improved security
Security was once one of the top concerns and reasons cloud-based computing was delayed by businesses and organizations. However, RightScale's 2016 State of the Cloud Report found that security worries are no longer the most frequently cited challenge.
Because of the security concerns expressed by the public, cloud providers have made a point to address this issue by implementing more strict security measures. Some now even go so far as to offer enterprise mandated security standards that are compliant with PCI, HIPAA, and PIPEDA guidelines.
Security has improved significantly as a result. Sixty-four percent of IT professionals now feel that the cloud is more secure than legacy systems. This may be because cloud providers are typically more diligent about performing updates and patches as well as continually investigating gaps in security frameworks. And in the event that a laptop or flash drive is lost or stolen, cloud providers may be able to remotely wipe any residual data from the device before it falls into the wrong hands — another feature unique to cloud-based platforms.
Follow MEDictate on LinkedIn and never miss a post. Or visit us here to learn more about our industry-changing voice recognition software and revenue cycle management solutions.
Do you use any cloud-based platforms? What benefits would you add to the list above? Please join the conversation below.