In 2020 the use of telehealth services spiked by an astronomical 70%, according to the American Medical Association (AMA). In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the value of telehealth services and their ability to fill voids in the healthcare system became especially clear.
However as more and more patients and healthcare institutions adopted the use of telehealth services, the need for the infrastructure and management tools to meet the demand and ensure efficiency and accessibility also came to light.
That’s where business intelligence (BI) tools come in.
From ensuring operational efficiency and securing electronic health records (EHR) to providing data driven insights on patient needs and care, BI tools are helping to bridge technology and healthcare to improve overall quality, and make it more accessible for more and more people.
How Business Intelligence (BI) Tools Improve Telemedicine Delivery
BI is playing a crucial role in improving the overall quality and efficiency in delivery of telehealth services, which ultimately improves patient outcomes and general satisfaction with their care.
Some of the key areas where BI tools are streamlining the delivery of telehealth services include:
Data Analysis
BI tools analyze large volumes of healthcare data, including electronic health records (EHRs), billing information, and patient demographics. This analysis helps identify trends, patterns, and correlations that can improve overall management and decision-making.
Predictive Analysis
BI tools can use historical data to predict future trends such as how often patients use telehealth services, patient volume, and the types of services telehealth patients use the most. This helps healthcare organizations with resource allocation and improves efficiency.
Real-Time Monitoring
BI tools provide real-time monitoring of telehealth services, allowing providers to track patient progress, identify technical and service issues, and adapt services as needed.
Improved Patient Engagement
BI tools can analyze patient data to personalize telehealth services, improve patient engagement and communications, and enhance the overall patient experience.
Monitor and Analyze KPIs
BI tools can monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as patient wait times, readmission rates, comorbidities, and medication adherence. This information helps healthcare providers target areas for improvement, and implement strategies to fine tune patient care.
Monitor and Manage Population Health
As the lingering effects of the pandemic and the explosion of chronic health problems like diabetes and heart disease have shown, the health of individuals is intertwined with the overall health of the communities in which they live.
BI tools can also analyze population health data to identify at-risk populations more closely and effectively, and develop targeted interventions. This helps to improve the health of entire communities, and potentially reduce healthcare costs as well.
Cost Savings
By identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement, BI tools can help healthcare organizations reduce some of the administrative costs associated with delivering telehealth services.
Bridging the Gap Between Healthcare and Technology
Incorporating data-driven insights into the management and delivery of telehealthcare services can significantly improve access to remote healthcare services, especially in underserved communities and vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children.
As telehealth services become more efficient and reliable, trust among patients also improves, making them more likely to use the telehealth services available to them in the future.
BI offers analytics, real-time monitoring, and predictive modeling tools to seamlessly blend technology and healthcare in a number of ways:
Better Decision Making
Analytics and reporting capabilities provide insight into past and current data, and help healthcare providers make informed decisions about patient care and practice operations.
Real-time monitoring ensures that decisions are based on the most up-to-date information. Predictive modeling uses historical data to forecast future trends, enabling proactive decision-making and resource planning as quickly and safely as possible.
Improved Patient Care
By analyzing patient data, healthcare providers can personalize treatment plans, predict potential health issues in the short and long term, and design early intervention plans and treatment to prevent complications. Real-time monitoring allows for continuous tracking of patient health metrics, improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Optimized Resource Allocation
Analytics and predictive modeling help healthcare organizations optimize resource allocation by forecasting the demand for specific resources and services, identifying inefficiencies, and improving processes and operations. Real-time monitoring ensures that resources are allocated based on current needs, while also allowing providers to effectively plan for the future.
Increasing Accessibility
Telehealth and remote monitoring technologies provided by BI tools expand access to healthcare, especially in underserved or remote areas where wait times and access to follow up care can be difficult to come by for both children and adults.
Patients can receive care without the need for in-person visits, improving accessibility, convenience, and even affordability in some cases.
Drive Continuous Improvement
By continuously analyzing healthcare data and monitoring care outcomes, healthcare providers can continuously identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance the quality and efficiency of care.
BI tools are helping to transform healthcare delivery to more and more people, making it more personalized, efficient, and accessible for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the remarkable surge of telehealth services in 2020, driven by a 70% increase, showcased its pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the healthcare landscape adapted to this shift, the need for robust infrastructure and efficient management tools became evident. Enter Business Intelligence (BI) tools, acting as the catalyst to elevate telehealth services.
BI tools play a crucial role in enhancing the quality and efficiency of telehealth delivery. From analyzing vast datasets to predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and personalized patient engagement, BI tools bridge the gap between healthcare and technology. They offer a strategic approach, focusing on better decision-making, improved patient care, optimized resource allocation, increased accessibility, and driving continuous improvement.
As we navigate the evolving healthcare landscape, the integration of BI tools into telehealth services not only ensures efficiency and cost savings but also brings about a transformative impact on patient outcomes. This data-driven approach not only makes healthcare more personalized but also accessible, paving the way for a future where quality healthcare is within reach for everyone. Business Intelligence tools are at the forefront of this healthcare revolution, driving continuous improvement and making healthcare more efficient, personalized, and accessible for all.
Dan Columbus
Dan is the Director of Enterprise Sales focusing on BI and data-analytics products. Dan holds a BS in engineering from Penn State and has used it for a career in technical selling and management. He is always seeking the “win-win” deal and enjoys working with clients to help them achieve their goals.
When he isn't working with data clients, he spends time with his family and enjoys traveling to new places with them. Dan also enjoys art, architecture, and loves to compete in poker tournaments.
You can connect with Dan on LinkedIn.
