What You Should Know:
The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has released its annual Digital Health Most Wired (DHMW) survey report, providing valuable insights into the digital health progress of healthcare organizations (HCOs) worldwide.
– The 2024 survey reveals a significant shift towards governance and automation in key digital domains, reflecting a growing emphasis on leveraging technology to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
Key Findings from the 2024 DHMW Survey:
- Governance Takes Center Stage: HCOs are prioritizing governance for technology decision-making, education, and deployment to ensure data and insights are utilized effectively.
- Patient Engagement Leads in Adoption: Significant progress has been made in adopting patient engagement tools, such as apps and portals, to empower patients and caregivers.
- Security and Infrastructure Remain Top Priorities: HCOs are investing heavily in cybersecurity and infrastructure to protect patient data and improve operational efficiency.
- Increased IT Budgets: HCOs are allocating larger portions of their overall budget to IT, with a focus on adopting new solutions and optimizing existing technologies.
- Streamlining Caregiver Workflows: HCOs are investing in organization-owned devices and automated technologies to streamline caregiver workflows and enhance care delivery.
- BYOD Programs on the Rise: The use of employee-owned devices (BYOD) in healthcare settings is increasing, reflecting a shift towards more flexible and technology-driven care environments.
- Cybersecurity Investments Continue: HCOs are prioritizing cybersecurity investments, appointing dedicated security executives, and engaging third-party firms for risk assessments.
- AI for Cybersecurity: Many HCOs are deploying AI to enhance their cybersecurity programs, particularly for endpoint, network, and cloud security.
- AI-Driven Efficiency in Administration: AI is being widely used to streamline revenue cycle and contract management processes, improving staff efficiency.
- Data Management and Analytics Advancements: HCOs are seeking consolidated analytics platforms and leveraging real-time insights and data visualization tools to improve decision-making.
- Data Governance Programs Mature: Data governance programs are maturing across HCOs of all sizes, with a focus on centralized data management and strategic decision-making.
- Interoperability Remains a Focus: HCOs continue to prioritize interoperability, leveraging EHRs for data exchange and adopting TEFCA standards and participation in QHINs.
- Patient Engagement Evolves: Patient engagement has expanded beyond basic portal functions, with increased use of mobile apps and integration with personal health devices.
- Telehealth Shifts In-House: Many HCOs are shifting towards in-house management of telehealth programs, reflecting a more centralized approach to virtual care.
- Clinical Quality and Safety: HCOs are using technology to improve clinical quality and safety, including real-time reporting and decision-making tools.
