Reflections on HIMSS24
Last month’s HIMSS conference in Orlando felt more energized – seemingly a return to “pre-Covid” attendance levels and vendor participation.
In this article, Zen Executives will delve into their key takeaways and highlights from the conference. From healthcare data exchange to AI discussions and cybersecurity risks, there were many exciting topics that captured the attention of attendees. Let’s explore each of these areas in more detail and understand why they are important for the future of the industry.
Healthcare Data Exchange: A Challenge Worth Pursuing
Healthcare data exchange has long been a challenge in the industry, but it is finally happening at scale. This is an exciting development because it opens up new possibilities for problem-solving and innovation in data sharing. The discussions at HIMSS24 were centered around the next level of problem-solving in this area, which made them interesting and fun. The ability to exchange data seamlessly between different healthcare providers and systems is crucial for delivering efficient and effective care. It allows for better coordination, improved patient outcomes, and reduced costs.
“Healthcare Data Exchange is still a challenge but IT IS HAPPENING and therefore the discussions are focused around the next level of problem solving, which is more interesting. We had some really productive discussions out on the Exhibit Floor this year”
AI: Driving Value for Providers and Patients
Artificial Intelligence (AI) was another hot topic at HIMSS24, and the discussions around it were focused on specific use cases that drive value for both providers and patients. One AI use case that stood out to us was supporting provider documentation. Documenting visits in EHR systems has been painful for years, and seeing how AI tools can reduce provider documentation time is a great example of the power of AI to increase productivity and reduce provider frustrations at the same time.
AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving diagnosis accuracy, streamlining administrative tasks, and enhancing patient care. By leveraging AI technologies, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions, reduce errors, and ultimately deliver better outcomes for their patients. The use of AI in healthcare is not just a futuristic concept; it is already being implemented in various areas, such as radiology, genomics, and personalized medicine.
“AI discussions at HIMSS this year were focused around specific use cases which drive value for providers and patients. Are we moving from hype to hope?”
Cybersecurity: A Scary but Solvable Problem
Cybersecurity risks in healthcare are a cause for concern, but with the right tools and resources, they can be addressed. At HIMSS24, there were practical discussions around cybersecurity and the need for business continuity risk management. The threat of cyberattacks is ever-present, and healthcare organizations must be prepared to protect patient data and ensure the continuity of their operations. By implementing robust cybersecurity and business continuity measures, such as adopting multiple clearinghouse relationships and leveraging secure data sharing networks, healthcare providers can mitigate risks and safeguard sensitive information.
“Cybersecurity risks are scary right now but with the right tools and resources, it’s a solvable problem. AND – it highlights the need to focus on business continuity risk management. It’s also great to see a wider adoption of the HITRUST CSF Security Framework”
Regional HIE and Nationwide Data Exchange: Beyond Treatment Queries
Regional Health Information Exchanges (HIE) and nationwide data exchange have come a long way. While the initial focus was on treatment queries, discussions at HIMSS24 revealed that these exchanges are now expanding to encompass a much broader range of use cases. eCase Reporting for public health, FHIR based preauthorizations, and patient requests were among the national networks topics discussed. This evolution is crucial for advancing healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes. By leveraging the power of data exchange, healthcare providers can enhance collaboration, streamline processes, and deliver more personalized care.
“Regional HIE and Nationwide Data Exchange discussions are now, finally, about more than ‘treatment’ queries. Treatment use case has allowed us to build a great foundation, but it’s time to get to the next level with eCase Reporting (Public Health), Preauthorizations, and Patient Requests (etc).”
Conclusion
HIMSS24 showcased the progress and potential of healthcare data exchange, Healthcare specific AI, and the importance of a strong cybersecurity posture. The discussions around these topics were incredibly insightful. As the Health Tech industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for healthcare providers to stay informed and embrace these advancements. By leveraging technologies and solutions in these areas, providers can enhance patient care, improve efficiency, and drive better outcomes. The future of healthcare is bright, and events like HIMSS24 play a vital role in shaping it.
Explore how our products/solutions can help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of healthtech. Contact us today for a free consultation!
