Cloud Computing in Healthcare

Cloud computing, a seasoned player in the technology industry, has triggered a massive shift in how professionals from any domain handle volumes of data. This is also true when it comes to healthcare. Stakeholders in the field are exposed to large amounts and highly confidential information.

However, with its many advantages, cloud computing has empowered healthcare providers to control the access and process of sensitive patient data in real time. 

The growth of reliance on modern technology from traditional has been gradual. The string of concerns tied to the move is never-ending. And cloud computing is not an exception to this. However, it has crept into the scene with considerably less effort. 

Introduction to Cloud Computing and its Benefits in Healthcare

Cloud computing allows organizations to use remote servers and resources to store, manage, and process data. In healthcare, cloud computing simplifies and secures sensitive healthcare data exchange, automates backend operations, and even aids the creation and maintenance of telehealth applications. 

Cloud computing has enhanced the functionality of IT systems incorporated into the healthcare sector. The benefits of easy scalability, accessibility, flexibility, low costs, high security, etc., have made the shift to cloud computing technology reasonably easy. 

The emergence of the concept has made quality healthcare accessible to the masses. Thus infusing an increase in expectations – hopes of better patient outcomes, efficiency, and management.

Learn more about the 7 Benefits of Cloud Computing in the Healthcare Industry.

Healthcare organizations are ultimately moving their services to the cloud. Adopting this efficient technology has made the proper distribution of quality care achievable. 

If you are searching for a flexible solution to the million-dollar question, “Will there ever be a future where efficient healthcare is available within an arm’s reach?” you are in the right place. Read on to learn about the great cloud computing technology. 

Future Healthcare Cloud Computing Market Predictions 

MarketsandMarkets, a leading research and analytics firm, predicts that the global healthcare cloud computing market, estimated at $39.4 bn in 2022, will grow to a whopping $89.4 bn in 2027, at a CAGR of 17.8%. 

According to Mordor Intelligence, a market and advisory firm, the Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing healthcare cloud computing market. However, North America still tops the list. Their research reveals that cloud computing will exhibit itself as a vital tool for both healthcare providers and healthcare payers, i.e., both Clinical Information Systems (CIS) – Electronic Health Records (EHR), Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), etc.- and Non-clinical Information Systems (NCIS) – Revenue Cycle Management (RCM), Automatic Patient Billing (APB), Payroll Management System, etc.

So, no matter where you fall on the spectrum: healthcare provider or healthcare payer, your company can transition from traditional methods to the cloud. 

Cloud Computing Components

Cloud computing consists of three main components based on the distribution of services: 

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
• Platform as a Service (PaaS)
• Software as a Service (SaaS)

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides virtualized computing resources such as servers, storage, and networking over the Internet. Organizations can set up their computing infrastructure without purchasing and maintaining physical hardware.

Platform as a Service (PaaS) provides a platform for developers to build, deploy, and manage applications over the Internet. Thus, developers can focus on creating applications without worrying about the underlying infrastructure.

Software as a Service (SaaS) enables organizations to access software applications over the Internet without installing and maintaining them on computers.

Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Use-cases

There are several notable instances of successful implementation of cloud computing in the healthcare sector. 

Telemedicine

Telemedicine is the use of technology to provide remote healthcare services to consumers. Cloud computing enables storing and processing patient data securely, making it easier for healthcare organizations to provide remote healthcare services at the patient’s convenience.

Browse the ultimate tried and tested guide to build a telemedicine app from scratch.

Medical Imaging

Cloud-based medical imaging systems enable healthcare providers to store and access medical images remotely. This improves collaboration among healthcare providers and reduces the need for physical storage space.

Healthcare Analytics

It is the process of analyzing healthcare data to improve patient outcomes and reduce costs. Cloud computing makes storing and processing large amounts of data possible, making it easier for healthcare professionals to perform analytics and gain insights into patient care.

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Cloud-based EHR solutions enable healthcare providers to access patient data anytime and from any location. This enhances patient care while lowering administrative costs.

Security and privacy concerns around Cloud Computing 

Healthcare organizations leveraging cloud computing are on an uphill climb on the betterment ladder. However, despite the numerous benefits, such as flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, several challenges come with adopting the technology, especially regarding security and privacy.

Healthcare data is sensitive and needs to be protected from unauthorized access. Cloud service providers must ensure their systems are secure and comply with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

HIPAA, a federal law in the U.S., outlines the standards for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive patient healthcare data. 

Additional Reads:

1. HIPAA-Compliant Cloud Storage
2. The Ultimate HIPAA-Compliant Checklist For Software Developers

To address privacy and security concerns, cloud service providers implement security measures such as encryption, access controls, and data backups. They also undergo regular audits to ensure their systems are secure and comply with regulations. 

Partner with TechVariable For Healthcare Cloud Solutions

As a healthcare custom software development company, TechVariable has successfully leveraged cloud computing to develop and deploy software solutions. Our team of AWS-certified experts is highly committed to helping create health tech to make quality care easily accessible.