HIMSS has shared in a new report some points on advancing digital health transformation by extending the role of cloud computing in the post-COVID-19 era.

WHAT IT'S ABOUT

The report, Next stop, the cloud: connected health on the brink of a new age in Asia-Pacific, features five key policy recommendations that consolidate HIMSS' vision of connected health. Taken from a virtual roundtable with APAC government and regional health authority representatives in October, each point is dependent on cloud adoption across health systems. 

WHY IT MATTERS

Governments across APAC are now coming out of the pandemic with lessons learned during their response. 

They are finding value in their experiences, particularly with cloud computing, to support their digital transformation journeys. While some countries have transitioned to public and hybrid cloud models for EMR systems and individual services, this is "still relatively unchartered territory in healthcare," according to HIMSS. 

THE LARGER TREND

Over the past year, major hospitals across APAC have demonstrated enhanced capabilities in care delivery through their transition to the cloud. 

In anticipation of rising care demands from its service population, the hospital chain Manipal Hospitals in India has worked with Google Cloud and its telehealth partner Amwell to power its virtual care. 

Over in Singapore, the Alexandra Hospital took part in the launch of a cloud-based digital health service called LifeHub+, which connects clinicians and health coaches with patients who are at risk or dealing with preventable chronic health conditions. 

Another noteworthy example in the region is Korea University Anam Hospital, which has implemented a cloud-based HIS that propelled its ranking in the HIMSS Digital Health Indicator.  The system has resulted in significant outcomes, including cost reductions.

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Read the full report here.