The world of healthcare has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years, thanks to the integration of digital technologies. Digital healthcare, often referred to as remote healthcare or telehealth, is revolutionizing the way patients access, manage, and receive healthcare services. At the heart of this revolution is the principle of putting patients first.
The mission of every software developer in healthcare IT should be the same as every nurse and doctor: to put the patient first in all considerations and benefit them as much as possible. Sometimes this is hard when a developer is multiple steps removed from the patient, but it is still possible. Keeping team meetings focused on the patient and their needs is a great way to keep the patient first in mind.
One example of how to do is in Agile morning stand ups. Each participant should be able to state how their work that day will help a patient. This can be done by saying something like “I am working on the patient portal today, which will allow patients to access their medical records and schedule appointments online.” This helps keep the patient first in mind and helps the team focus on the patient’s needs.
Keeping focused on our shared mission is the first step in becoming an effective digital healthcare provider (even behind a keyboard).
While digital healthcare holds great promise, it also presents challenges that must be addressed to ensure the patient-first approach remains intact:
Protecting patient data from breaches and ensuring the security of digital healthcare platforms are paramount concerns. Stricter regulations and robust security measures are necessary to build trust in these systems. Data breaches can reduce trust in the healthcare system and lead to patients withholding information from their doctors, which can have serious consequences for their health.
The digital divide remains a significant issue, as not all patients have equal access to technology. Efforts are needed to bridge this gap and ensure that everyone can benefit from digital healthcare solutions. Mobile platforms and operating system support is mandatory when launching a digital healthcare platform.
As healthcare becomes more digitized, it’s crucial to maintain high standards of care. It is reasonable to admit there are limits on the benefits remote care can provide. Digital healthcare should complement, rather than replace, in-person care when necessary.
Digital healthcare is reshaping the healthcare landscape, placing patients at the forefront of their own health journeys. By improving accessibility, enhancing convenience, personalizing treatment, and fostering better communication, digital healthcare is transforming the way we think about healthcare delivery.
However, it’s essential to strike a balance between embracing technology and preserving the human touch in healthcare. The patient-first approach should guide the development and implementation of digital healthcare solutions to ensure that they genuinely enhance the patient experience and lead to better health outcomes for all.