The challenges associated with delivering quality healthcare are well-documented: rising demand, workforce shortages, compounding risk (including cyber security) in the delivery of services in hospitals, via allied health services and in the home. Integration of digital technologies into healthcare is being driven by a range of factors:
The rise in community-based / in-home care: Remote clinical monitoring, in-home treatment and uptake of hybrid models for allied health delivery is being driven by patient preference and capacity to reduce demand on an overloaded acute sector. For example, in the aged care sector, the number of people using home care increased more than threefold over the period 2011-21.1 Currently the level of in-home care people can receive is impacted by a digital divide. Providing effective and efficient healthcare, particularly in rural and remote settings, presents complex and varied challenges, largely limited by access to infrastructure, geographical distance, and unique community profiles.
Uptake of virtualised care: The pandemic accelerated adoption of remote health consultations and created impetus for digitisation of other clinical and patient services that help patients take more control of their health and wellbeing, improve safety and create efficiencies in the health system. Virtualised care enables.
This paper does two things: 1. Articulate opportunities and challenges associated with technology in healthcare, and 2. Profile digital innovation assets that can tackle challenges at scale and turn words into action. proactive self-management of health and wellbeing as well as remote diagnosis and health monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for older people, those who have difficulty accessing healthcare settings due to mobility issues, and those who are prone to iatrogenic risks in a hospital environment. The use of sensors for health, frailty and mobility assessment / diagnosis in older people can impact their independence and quality of life.
Strain on technology infrastructure in the acute setting: The strain on technology infrastructure in acute healthcare settings has become a pressing concern, as evidenced by one Melbourne healthcare network where 46% of hospital internet traffic was funnelled through the wireless network – more than four times the initial forecast. This escalating demand is being generated by clinicians, administrators and patients, who are constantly creating and seeking diverse technology services such as data, voice and location-grade Wi-Fi coverage. Addressing this challenge, particularly during new builds, is crucial to avoid the costly and disruptive consequences of retrofitting an operational health environment. By establishing the right digital foundations from the outset, healthcare facilities can benefit from seamless connectivity and efficient infrastructure that has greater longevity.
