Cloud computing is a growing trend in the healthcare industry, and one that is here to stay, according to GlobalData. The leading data and analytics company notes that this technology not only helps secure patient data but also strengthens transparency between healthcare institutions and their patients.

Cloud services will help healthcare companies improve cybersecurity

GlobalData’s latest report, ‘Disruptive Tech Themes in Medical Devices’, highlights how important it is that healthcare companies invest in cloud storage, with cybersecurity being one of the drivers for cloud adoption. Using cloud services to store patients’ information encourages trust and transparency between patients and healthcare providers. Physicians can enable patient involvement by providing real-time access to lab reports, electronic health records, and prescription notes. This way, patients are likely to feel more empowered and engaged in their healthcare experience, leading to better health outcomes.

Joselia Carlos, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Countries worldwide are expecting an exponential number of cyberattacks each year, and news such as the recent attack on Australian private health provider Medibank shows just how important it is that healthcare companies start taking advantage of disruptive technologies such as cloud computing to help protect data and maintain a relationship of trust with patients. Some crucial actions providers should take to maintain this relationship include having proper authentication, reviewing current data security policies, and revoking unauthorized access to their patients’ data.

“As patient data is one of the most sensitive and personal information in the world, patients need to be assured that their information will remain confidential with their healthcare providers.”

Global spending on cloud services by enterprises projected to reach $429.4bn in 2024

According to GlobalData’s report, ‘Tech Sentiment Polls Q2 2022 – Thematic Research’, 50% of consumers are confident that cloud computing will live up to its promises. The company predicts that global spending on cloud services by enterprises—including healthcare organizations—is projected to reach $429.4 billion in 2024.

Carlos notes: “Previously, patient data was spread over multiple databases and was only accessible to healthcare providers. By having patient data all in one place (i.e., the cloud), both patients and medical staff can access their files in a much quicker and easier way.”

Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare Cloud features will improve clinic operations

The healthcare industry is already seeing new releases every year by healthcare cloud providers, such as Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare Cloud. The company shared its latest releases at Microsoft Ignite 2022 and one of its new features, the Missed Appointment Prediction, uses artificial intelligence (AI) to assess the likelihood of a patient missing their next appointment.

Carlos adds: “This feature will allow healthcare providers to reach out to patients ahead of time, ensuring that they attend their next appointment. Not only does this promote patients’ continuity of care, it also reduces the occurrence of no-shows and last-minute cancellations. By forecasting future cancelled appointments, clinics can better prepare their resources for their patients that day, ultimately improving clinic operations and reducing unnecessary costs.”