The fact that we underestimate is the amount of data we generate every day. That happens through smartphones, computers, and every other device associated with the Internet of Things. All the industries from transportation, IT, e-commerce, general users, and so on are producing trillion bytes of data every day. The Healthcare industry is not far. According to Statista, the healthcare data generated till 2021 has been above 2K exabytes. The numbers are exponentially rising as more devices are blooming in Healthcare technology. An enormous amount of energy and resources are also spent on storing this data. It calls for something like a cloud-based virtual item master to eliminate the drawbacks of an energy-consuming system.
Why is Storing Data Crucial in Healthcare?
A person will go through a lot of medical procedures in their lifetime. The information in their medical history will contain the results of all tests, such as MRIs and CT scans, as well as the individual’s entire medical records. Habits like smoking, drinking, and substance abuse also fall under this information. Healthcare facilities store this data for future reference when the patient needs some special care or treatment. If any alternate healthcare provider arrives, they can scan through this data before starting their treatment.
The more the data accumulated, the more will be the accuracy. The need to acquire and maintain more patient information places additional strain on hospitals and health care organizations, as it is difficult to store such large amounts of data.
Other than the patient record, healthcare facilities also need a data storage facility for their inventory.
Challenges in Data Storage in Healthcare Industry
We may have come past the times when there used to be a dedicated file room to store all patient data under the protection of almighty, hoping it will never get damaged or lost. Today computational power is used for storage. But there is a gap in how technologically advanced we have become, yet hospitals still rely on excel sheets and other outdated methods. It brings forth several challenges.
• Data Security is at risk
• High probability of system failure
• Requirement for larger infrastructure and its maintenance
• Deficiency in Scalability
• Errors while updating or missing information
Failing to address these issues keeps adding to the operational cost and increases the patient’s side as well. Also, it brings a lot of inefficiencies.
Mitigation Through Cloud Storage
Cloud storage, like a cloud-based virtual item master for healthcare, is the answer to all challenges. Here are a few advantages of using cloud storage.
• Reduced cost- It drastically reduces the requirement of physical space and infrastructure as everything is stored securely in a private area on the internet. It can be accessed through any device rather than having dedicated machines.
• It allows more integration- It collects and stores data from multiple sources and presents it so that it can be viewed on a single screen if required. The cloud-based virtual item master instantly helps you find the information you need.
• Simplifies remote healthcare- Today we, have plenty of devices and applications that enable remote consultation with healthcare providers. It invites a complex process of upload and download of data.
• Higher security- The data may be accessed easily but is only for verified users in the network.
• Increased Automation-There is some degree of automation in updating information or adding attributes for a more detailed record.
• Easy Collaboration- Access to the same information by multiple personnel simultaneously aids in successful communication and collaboration among healthcare teams, vendors, and other third parties.
Fortunately, many conscious healthcare managements have recognized the potential of cloud-based virtual item master. Hence, they have made the required replacements.
Healthcare institutions and providers can use data management and prediction tools in tandem. It will produce the intended effects and significantly greater ROI.