Technology is changing every industry in significant ways. No one can dispute technology’s ability to enable us all to live longer and healthier lives. From surgical robots to “smart hospitals,” the digital transformation is revolutionizing pharma and healthcare industry.
While talking about digitalization, a point which needs to be clarified is that it isn’t just about automation of process or job or even new technology. It is much bigger and more fundamental than that. Digital transformation is about using digital technologies and data to fulfil the need of the consumer.
Data visualization to increase accessibility
Data visualization isn’t just any art, it’s grounded in real results and industry findings. With the new technology, the way people access and process information are changing. For example, smart health monitors that can collect personalized, real-time data, encouraging healthier lifestyles help in gathering more lifestyle data, and medical records. Comparing the responses of patients with similarities in DNA, medical histories and lifestyle can allow us to understand health risks and the impact of different treatments. This sharing of data-based intelligence if done in a tangible and accessible way, not just helps the scientifically-minded people but also helps the border audience.
Access to a wide range of medical products
The medical product information is easily accessiable nowadays, it is no more limited to pathways of pharma companies and the secrecy no longer exists. Information about every medicinal product is available on the internet. Patients and consumers can easily find various ways to cure there condition through the internet. They can even find the alternatives to drugs without spending a penny.
Financial transparency:
Technology helps people in getting information about healthcare expenses. Till now, if the patient was getting treated, it was often unclear whether the procedures being done are actually necessary or not. But, now the patients and their family are well aware of the treatments. There’s also a lack of consistency for health care treatments, the same services and procedures vary in cost from state to state, sometimes even from one hospital to the next.
In many cases, patients don’t know how much a procedure costs until it’s done and they’ve received the bill. Healthcare cost sometimes leads to personal bankruptcy. Digital transformation is helping the system to improve the overall patient experience.
Digitalization streamlines the process for efficiency:
Future-forward technologies like AI that can make some of the major complex kind of decisions using in-depth data and analytical calculations are transforming strategic processes as we know them.
Increasing channel of communication:
Earlier if a patient had any healthcare concerns they used to rush to the hospital. However, with a growing digital presence, patients now explore the internet for hospital sites, e-mailers to connect to the doctor. Other than this, patients have online access to medical records which they can share with their doctors.
Digital transformation is an ongoing journey that requires putting the consumer at the centre of your business. It has created a whole new realm of possibility for the consumer, specifically with the advent of smartphones and their applications (apps). Smartphone apps are now considered helpful in enhancing patient education, facilitating communication and patient engagement.
About the Author
Sudip Chhatui –VP, Business and Operations at Curofy
Sudip hails from Kolkata NSIT, Delhi Alumni. He was the first person in the Curofy Marketing team, who joined before the launch of the Curofy app. Initially set up and led the growth team and is now leading the Business development team Curofy. He is a startup enthusiast. And, he is one who loves traveling. Also, a Real Madrid fan.
5 ways in which Digitalization is Transforming Healthcare and Pharma Industry
