Technology is now an important part of medicine. The use of the right technology can lead to increased efficiency, higher quality, and lower costs. The technology has numerous advantages, including facilitating inter-clinical communication, improving medication safety, reducing potential medical errors, increasing access to medical information, and encouraging patient care. Here are a few examples of how technology is assisting in patient safety.
- Improves the quality of patient-centered care
To promote patient-centered care, technology facilitates communication between providers and patients via online portals, text, and email. It also improves patient convenience and self-monitoring by increasing access to information such as online medical records. The impact of information technology on patient safety can be significant. As with most technologies, there can be advantages and disadvantages. The critical focus of any implementation or utilization of healthcare technology is patient safety and quality.
- Allows Clinicians to Communicate More Easily
Throughout the patient’s medical journey, many healthcare professionals are frequently involved in their care. Miscommunication and error can be significantly increased. One of the most common causes of adverse events is a failure to communicate. Electronic health records are intended to reduce such errors by compiling and storing all health information for the patient in a single, easy-to-access record.
- Information is made available
Many serious medication errors occur as a result of clinicians’ lack of patient and drug information. Information technology has greatly improved access to reference materials. A vast range of information on drug references is now available for smartphones, and clinicians can quickly access online textbooks, databases, and other medical references.
In conclusion Information technology has the potential to significantly impact patient safety. As with most technologies, there can be benefits and drawbacks. Whenever medical technology is implemented or used, patient safety and quality are the primary concerns.
