Most organizations rely on at least one digital "system of record" to manage critical data efficiently and securely. These systems include customer relationship management (CRM) systems, electronic health records (EHR), and other systems that collectively form the cornerstone of modern data integrity.
“Systems of record are great at handling a lot of different information, but they aren't always the best tools for day-to-day users, according to Anand Nathan, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer at AmplifyMD a leading integrated virtual care company. “We’ve all heard the adage that ‘EHRs make great billing systems,’ but they haven’t necessarily made life easier for doctors and nurses.”
How Salesforce Won with an Open System
But when a system of record supports a robust digital ecosystem, it can fundamentally change the way we work. Salesforce, the world’s leading CRM, is an example of this. Early on, Salesforce recognized the benefit of being an “open” system. Unlike its competitors at the time, the company made it easy for other apps and solutions to integrate directly with its data through open application programming interfaces (APIs). With access to Salesforce data, innovation flourished, and tech companies developed a plethora of new, helpful tools that now sit on top of the CRM, making work more productive for millions of users worldwide.
In contrast to Salesforce and the broader enterprise software industry, the healthcare sector and EHRs have been slow to adopt a digital ecosystem approach. The reluctance to embrace open systems can be partly attributed to strict privacy regulations. EHRs house vast amounts of personal data, and fear of security breaches and cyberattacks has led healthcare systems and EHRs to exercise extreme caution with third-party integrations.
Unfortunately, closed systems, while indeed safe, have inadvertently prevented most healthcare systems from fully benefiting from their own data.
Why Interoperability is the Key
Interoperability goes beyond sharing electronic health record (EHR) data within one hospital or system. It's about establishing connections across the entire healthcare system, making sure patient data is easily accessible wherever and whenever it's required. This web of interconnected data has the potential to empower healthcare providers to make better decisions and streamline their operations.
Ultimately, interoperable systems benefit patients, providers, and financials. The impact of remote patient monitoring, virtual care, and emerging AI tools will thrive when they can effortlessly and securely access and share relevant patient information in real-time.
Four Things Hospitals & Health Systems Should Do Now
- Prioritize interoperability. Leverage new methods like FHIR APIs now available in EHRs and participate in health information exchanges (HIEs) and health information networks (HINs).
- Upgrade or replace legacy EHR technology. Even if costly, moving to cloud-based solutions will improve access, more easily enable interoperability, and make workflows more efficient for providers and clinical staff.
- Replace and avoid siloed or proprietary technology solutions. Many legacy systems made work more complex instead of easier. When technology creates an added burden, adoption is challenging, and tools never achieve their intended impact.
- Allow trusted third-party apps and systems to access and exchange data with APIs. Simplify the process for vetted third parties to enable access with trusted partners. It's important to note that most Personal Health Information (PHI) breaches occur through physical access (such as a laptop left in a car), not through these API integrations.
The Status Quo Is No Longer An Option
The benefits from emerging tech solutions can only reach their full potential when health systems and EHRs become fully interoperable, and ongoing staffing challenges might be the catalyst for change. "Hospitals with the best technology will attract more of today’s workforce looking for tools that make day-to-day patient care easier and improve work-life balance," said Nathan. “Health systems that maintain a closed, non-interoperable approach will be at a recruiting disadvantage, unable to leverage the multitude of new technologies poised to drive new efficiencies.”
If the rise of Salesforce tells us anything, it’s that closed-wall systems that resist collaboration lose their competitive edge, a lesson that will likely repeat itself in healthcare for those who stick with the status quo.