Smart Hospitals: Critical for transforming healthcare infrastructure

Smart hospitals are transforming the healthcare infrastructure in India, addressing real-world problems and improving patient outcomes through the adoption of advanced technologies. Whether it is patient documentation, speedy insurance claims, or medical history records, hospitals integrating smart technology are ensuring patient-centred healthcare services. These hospitals are also paving the path to redefine healthcare services in tier 2, tier 3 cities through tech advancements. The Indian healthcare sector faces significant challenges, including a shortage of qualified doctors, especially in rural and remote areas, and an uneven distribution of healthcare resources.

To tackle these issues, smart hospitals are leveraging technology to optimize patient journeys, enhance patient experiences, improve productivity, ensure data protection, and foster collaboration between technologists and healthcare practitioners.

Optimising Patient Journey through Smart Hospitals

Smart hospitals are the focus in India on implementing advanced technologies in order to ensure that a patient's journey is seamless from before they enter the hospital till after they leave. Apps for pre-admission processes, real-time asset tracking and patient monitoring within the hospital, and optimization of patient flow make it possible for smart hospitals to enhance not only quality of patient care but also management at the hospital. For example, many Indian hospitals now use AI chatbots that help patients make appointments, thus personalizing patient experiences and enhancing satisfaction.

Enhancing Patient Experience with Smart Devices

Smart devices, such as wearables, smart beds, biosensors, and implanted monitors, play a crucial role in smart hospitals by providing continuous health tracking and early detection of potential health issues. Remote patient monitoring is also gaining momentum, with smartwatches and fitness trackers becoming common tools for proactive care choices based on data trends and predictions. In India, where 70% of the population lives in rural areas with limited access to healthcare facilities, smart devices can revolutionize personalized medicine and predictive healthcare, especially in remote and underserved areas.

Automation and Improved Productivity

Smart hospitals rely heavily on automation to upgrade operations and workflows, significantly boosting productivity and accuracy in hospital care. Automation is used in various aspects, including internal asset management, automated procedures, and back-office and front-office processes, leading to huge productivity gains and higher-quality care delivery. By automating routine tasks, healthcare professionals can focus more on patient care, leading to improved patient outcomes and a more efficient healthcare system.

Cybersecurity and Data Protection

As smart hospitals increasingly rely on technology and data, cybersecurity becomes a critical concern in India. Ensuring the protection of sensitive patient data and smart systems from cyber threats is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring the smooth operation of the hospital. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, smart hospitals can safeguard patient data and protect their systems from potential breaches, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information.

Bottomline

The successful implementation of smart hospitals requires ongoing collaboration between technologists and healthcare practitioners in India. This partnership ensures that the technological advancements are not just projects for the IT department but are integrated into the healthcare practice to save more lives and improve patient outcomes. By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, smart hospitals can harness the power of technology to create a more efficient, effective, and patient-centered healthcare system. In conclusion, smart hospitals in India are a critical step in transforming the healthcare infrastructure by leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes, streamline operations, and enhance the overall healthcare experience.

Vineet Aggarwal, Chief Information Officer, Paras Health