As big data continue to grow, organizations realize that the need for better data governance can never be overstated. This is especially true as more organizations recognize that healthcare data governance directly impacts the level of care you’re able to deliver to your patients.
Data is entering your organization from more portals than ever before: EMRs, patient portals, the Internet of Things, wearable devices, patient-generated information, and more, organizations are experiencing less control and organizing in managing their data to deliver the insights they expect.
But regardless of the complexities, healthcare organizations are pursuing data governance largely because of its impact on patient service. Take a look at three of the most common ways data governance can strengthen the care your patients receive:
Patient Identification
Doctors using the wrong patient’s chart to deliver care happens more often than you may think. Even the most advanced workflows and analytics are useless if doctors are using the wrong information for treatment purposes.
Patient matching and identification are one of the biggest opportunities to use data governance to improve patient care. This process usually relies on multiple data sets to ensure a positive ID, but when records are incomplete, algorithms that require this data are unable to work effectively.
This, in turn, creates a ripple effect on insurance reimbursement, patient satisfaction and trust, and the use of in-house resources to correct errors.
Better data governance can ensure that important fields or records are complete and up to date so every patient receives the treatment they need.
Patient Engagement
Patient portals and streamlined communication have encouraged patients to take control of their health needs. Patients can access their personal data, such as appointment history, visit notes, and prescription information, among other features.
Many portals are shifting to allow patients to govern their own data, to an extent. For example, some systems now allow patients to choose which providers can see sensitive information, such as mental health history, as well as control privacy and security settings.
This level of visibility into each patient’s health history increases patient engagement, but more importantly, it adds accountability for both the patient and the provider. Patients have direct insight into the information their provider records. Seeing the level of detail, accuracy, and integrity of this information can help to build trust and confidence with the organization.
Workflows for Analytics
The technology exists for organizations to create streamlined, structured workflows to simplify daily tasks. But providers continue to struggle to create workflows that are intuitive, effective, and offer analytical insights.
Improving data governance planning can help to reduce these complexities on EHR users. Even when the data collected is correct, delivery must also be a priority to avoid overwhelming users while they’re delivering care.
Physicians and users can deliver the highest level of care when they can access the right data at the right time. Providing inaccurate or complicated information on a regular basis can eventually result in users ignoring information that could be helpful when treating patients.
Workflows should be designed to provide a simple, streamlined approach for physicians, but also allowed to create insights on the data collected that can benefit business users.
Better Data Governance Is Not an Option
Incorporating data governance is a major undertaking for organizations of any size. It requires a complete commitment from business leaders and users alike, and it’s only complicated by abstract ideas and expectations of what data governance needs to look like and how it should work.
Still, the benefits that data governance delivers to your patients is hard to ignore. Contact Lifepoint today to explore how to improve your data governance with technology solutions designed for modern healthcare.
FAQs on Cloud-Based Lab Result Software
What are the benefits of cloud-based deployment for lab result software?
Cloud-based deployment offers enhanced flexibility and cost-efficiency, especially for small practices or specialty labs. Large practices also gain from cloud solutions by ensuring robust data security and privacy through dedicated servers, which prevent unauthorized access and comply with privacy regulations.
How does lab result software ensure HIPAA compliance?
HIPAA compliance is crucial for safeguarding patient information. Lab result software must adhere to HIPAA guidelines for storing, retrieving, viewing, and transmitting medical records. Software vendors should clearly demonstrate how their solutions meet these stringent requirements to ensure data privacy and security.
How can I see a demo of a cost-effective lab interface?
You can schedule a live demo of a cost-effective lab interface by contacting Lifepoint Informatics at 877.522.8378 or visiting their contact page. They provide hands-on training and have completed over 20,000 projects for more than 500 entities in the last 20 years.
What should I consider when choosing a lab interface?
When selecting a lab interface, focus on your practice’s specific needs and choose a solution that offers essential features without incurring unnecessary costs. It’s advisable to consult experts and view demonstrations to make an informed decision.
How important is customer support for a lab interface?
24/7 customer support is vital. Ensure your vendor offers knowledgeable representatives and technicians who can resolve issues or provide information as needed.
How does data governance affect patient care?
Effective data governance is essential for improving patient care by ensuring accurate patient identification, enhancing patient engagement, and creating efficient workflows for analytics. Proper governance ensures that health records are complete, up-to-date, and accessible when needed.
What is HL7 to FHIR and why is it important?
HL7 to FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) is a standard developed by HL7 to enhance interoperability between Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems. FHIR acts as both a data format standard and an API, facilitating seamless communication between EHRs, devices, and mobile applications.
How does FHIR improve EHR interoperability?
FHIR was created to make EHRs interoperable by providing detailed descriptions of data formats and resources. It supports open standards such as SMART, which reduces the time and effort required for healthcare app developers to connect systems, thereby enhancing clinical care, public health, and research.
What are the advantages of using FHIR over traditional HL7 standards?
Unlike traditional HL7 standards requiring detailed programming to create interfaces between EHRs, FHIR simplifies this process using web services with FHIR APIs. This approach allows for the easy creation of healthcare apps that function similarly to social media news feeds, improving communication and data exchange.