Benefits of Cloud Computing in Healthcare

"Data Cloud" From Wix Media Library

Introduction

Cloud computing is the storage and access of computing services through the web. Computing services include servers, networks, databases and other services. Cloud computing allows file access across computers to anyone on a service, eliminating the need for hardware such as hard drives (Built in). The versatility offered by cloud computing is seeing increasing use in healthcare. It is projected that by 2027, cloud computing in healthcare will reach a global market share of $89 billion (Thomas, 2024). In practice, this massive implementation could bring many healthcare benefits, including improved data access, increased productivity, and improved collaboration.

Improved Data Access

Cloud technology has integrated with digital health technologies. An example of this integrated technology are electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs allow secure, quick access to patient data, an important quality to healthcare workers. EHRs with cloud capabilities streamline communication of patient information from healthcare to other groups. Streamlined exchange of information allows real-time patient diagnosis and treatment updates, promoting organization between practitioners and specialists for patient needs (Chaudhry, 2023). In my opinion, it is important that data exchange over the cloud remains secure, to prevent unlawful use of the increased data access that cloud technology provides.

Increased Productivity

Storage of healthcare data over the cloud means improved productivity due to organized data access. Cloud storage allows easy input and retrieval of data because cloud systems aim to minimize disorganization of data files. Optimization of organization from cloud storage (over EHRs for example) promote coordination and thus productivity in patient care, allowing easy data access (Chaudhry, 2023). In my opinion, it is important that cloud computing/technology companies maintain the resilience of data organization such that an organized structure may resist unintentional and intentional phenomenon that could disorganize data.

Improved Collaboration

Thanks to cloud technology, potential improving productivity and data access, collaboration could become easier. Work between healthcare professionals could become smoother and more productive as a result of cloud-based solutions. This could increase favorable results for patient care and encourage effective actions (Chaudhry, 2023). In my opinion, cloud-based solutions could certainly allow for greater opportunities to work together. I wonder if there are cloud computing technologies specialized for certain areas, such as for collaboration in managing patient records.

Conclusion

Cloud computing has the means to elevate healthcare, possibly through easier access to data, more productivity, and more opportunities for effective collaboration. These three benefits can contribute to more efficient management of hospital operations, promoting a better healthcare experience for patients and practitioners alike. As the technological frontier advances, cloud computing and its impact on healthcare will surely grow, potentially revolutionizing hospital operations and patient care.

References

Built in. (n.d.). What is cloud computing? How the cloud works. Built in. Retrieved January 12, 2025, from https://builtin.com/cloud-computing

Chaudhry, A. H. (2023, June 21). Revolutionizing healthcare: How cloud-based technology is changing      the game. Medical Economics. Retrieved January 12, 2025, from https://www.medicaleconomics.com/view/revolutionizing-healthcare-how-cloud-based-technology-is-changing-the-game\

Thomas, M. (2024, November 21). Cloud computing in healthcare: How it's used and 17 examples. Built in. Retrieved January 12, 2025, from https://builtin.com/articles/cloud-computing-in-healthcare