The healthcare industry is
increasingly turning towards mobile solutions. Stakeholders from across
the healthcare space -- providers, vendors and payers alike -- want to
know how to maintain the edge that mobile technology offers. Jerry
Buchanan, account director, Healthcare Technology and Services at eMids
Technologies, has shared five key components of a successful mobile
strategy for a healthcare enterprise.
1. Strong Mobile Philosophy
Is your mobile solution a market differentiator or a "me too"
offering? Nailing down a mobile philosophy "determines the level of
resources, time and executive commitment mobility will receive
throughout the enterprise,” said Buchanan. "Codification of this
philosophy into a business case is the foundation of a mobility
strategy." Achieving a balance of revenue and user expectations,
customer satisfaction and ROI is key to mobile success.
2. Product Roadmap
"Going mobile requires more than just cramming an existing
application down onto a smaller screen," noted Buchanan. Those
applications need to be tailored for mobility, with features that
complement and streamline workflow.
3. Web vs. Native Application
It is important to choose the approach that is most appropriate to
your needs. A mobile solution built as a web application can be accessed
from any browser-enabled device, Buchanan explained. On the other hand,
native applications "can take advantage of device hardware... allowing
for a user experience more in line with expectations generated from the
use of apps in daily life."
4. Application Integration
The data required for mobile applications already exists in
traditional applications. For example, clinical data is stored in an EHR
or PHR. "Given a solid plan to ensure personal health information
remains secure, healthcare mobility applications can take advantage of
this existing functionality and data via a service-based approach,"
Buchanan noted.
5. Device Integration
"A solid mobility strategy and architecture must include a means to
incorporate devices," according to Buchanan. With so many brands and
operating systems on the market, it's critical for healthcare
enterprises to ensure integration between existing technologies and
mobile devices.