Health Care Providers Using Cloud Computing Models for Data Sharing

Web-based cloud computing might be one way to achieve greater communication and cooperation among health care providers, HealthLeaders Media reports.

How it Works

Cloud computing — which uses an online platform that lets users share resources and information in near-real time — could more easily facilitate data sharing, including patients’ test results and medical histories, according to HealthLeaders Media.

Health care providers are using cloud computing programs to assemble, store and view medical data. The data are accessible by medical personnel, as well as patients.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

The system requires only a computer and an Internet connection to access.

Cloud computing systems allow for improved access to large files stored in picture archiving and communications systems and greater cost effectiveness because health care providers only pay for what they use, HealthLeaders Media reports.

In addition, smaller practices could benefit from off-site servers for data management and storage.

Using the System

A recent Ipsos Research report showed that 49% of health care decision makers said their organization has used cloud computing technology.

Health care providers are using cloud computing to:

• Collect and share data from trauma units during emergency relocations;
• Combine data from electronic health record systems, lab tests and claims with decision support systems;
• Give physicians access to records and large data files from remote locations; and
• Transfer diagnostic images from patients’ personal storage devices (Shaw, HealthLeaders Media, 10/13).

Source: iHealthBeat

If you practice is interested in exploring cloud computing, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to help!