The benefits of cloud computing in healthcare

Posted on Monday March 08, 2021

Cloud computing is gradually becoming the norm for healthcare organizations around the world. Whether via a browser-based tool or a mobile app, it’s easier than ever to deliver patient care from anywhere with an internet connection. If you’re still hesitant to embrace cloud technology, it’s time to reconsider.

Easy information access

Reviewing patient records used to be a time-consuming activity. In the past, doctors had to either lug around reams of documents or spend hours in front of a desktop computer to retrieve health records. But with cloud applications for managing electronic medical records (EMR), doctors can conveniently access medical records from anywhere, at any time.

HIPAA compliance

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) stipulates rules and regulations on how to protect patient health information. Whether you use a browser-based tool or a mobile app, cloud computing makes it easy to adapt to HIPAA regulatory updates and changes. For instance, a vendor can update its data encryption standards in the cloud and the changes will automatically take effect on all accounts and devices — no new installs or configuration necessary.

Cost reduction

The cloud also eliminates the need for on-site hardware, maintenance fees, and expensive one-time software licenses. In terms of less quantifiable cost reductions, the ability to access work from anywhere at any time boosts productivity and makes your IT department more efficient.

Scalability

Unlike in-house computer hardware, you can scale cloud storage solutions in a matter of minutes. Beyond the benefit of organizational simplicity, web-based EMR software gives you more storage than you can ever need and retrieves records in a few seconds.

Better data backup and recovery

Data loss is a real issue for healthcare practices. Will your business continuity be safe if your office IT suddenly becomes inaccessible? Even a couple of days of downtime can have serious repercussions for your organization.

Practices that store their files in the cloud don’t have to worry about this. Nearly every cloud solution stores files in more than one location so backups can be restored quickly if anything goes wrong.

Want to learn more about the ideal cloud computing solutions for your practice? Get in touch with one of our tech experts today for personalized recommendations.