This week, I spent some time with my preceptor to discuss the role of technology in improving healthcare outcomes. I realized that technological development positively impacts patient care and health outcomes through revolutionization. This is because technology can be used in every step of patient care, including triaging, diagnosis, management, and follow-up of patients. Besides, technology offers an opportunity for transforming and improving healthcare in terms of reducing errors, improving care coordination, tracking records, and improving practice efficiency (Tummers et al., 2020). For instance, telemedicine is an example of technology currently being used to manage patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus.
Using telemedicine, the healthcare provider and the patient are connected and easily communicate to enhance care. Patients can self-monitor blood sugars in remote areas while the caregiver is aware of the readings. In case of any abnormal findings, an intervention is provided quickly. Furthermore, telemedicine improves check-ups and scheduling and reduces the need for paperwork. As a result, patient sugars are well controlled, resulting in improved health outcomes and a reduction in mortality, morbidity, and other complications associated with diabetes.
Another aspect of technology is the use of information management systems, which have improved efficiency and speed in the services provided. Furthermore, it improves communication between different departments, a factor that ensures care is coordinated through enhanced information sharing (Tummers et al., 2020). Doctors and other healthcare providers can also share information worldwide through improved communication to enhance care. Finally, technology allows nurses to search for information in evidence-based practice that helps guide care during decision-making. Therefore, it is prudent that all healthcare settings acquire various technologies to improve health outcomes.
Reference
Tummers, M., Kværner, K., Sampietro-Colom, L., Siebert, M., Krahn, M., Melien, Ø., Hamerlijnck, D., Abrishami, P., & Grutters, J. (2020). On the integration of early health technology assessment in the innovation process: reflections from five stakeholders. International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care, 36(5), 481–485. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0266462320000756
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