Benefits of cloud technology in the care sector
The reality in many care homes today is that the majority of data is kept either on local servers or is analog: sticky notes, binders, etc. This creates a strain on efficiency, security, and the usefulness of the data.
Carers waste a lot of time looking through binders and notes to find the needed information — time that could be used to provide better care for residents. Moreover, it is difficult to gain any real insights into trends when all data is found on paper. At best, it would take a long time to detect any patterns. Data security is another concern when you have all information placed locally. What happens to the information if there is a fire or a break-in? The data is gone. Forever. By using cloud storage, you are safeguarded against such hazards.
Cloud technology: enabling care through smarter work processes
Sekoia was built on Microsoft Azure to deliver a low-cost digital care-planning platform for “point-of-care” workflow and documentation. Azure SQL Database forms the backbone of Sekoia, making building and maintaining the solution easier and more productive. Sekoia on Azure is a simple, powerful platform supporting care workers in their core tasks.
By digitizing your work processes, you allow your entire organization to become data-driven. This will create a solid foundation for your organization to develop and improve through the use of data. When you are able to learn from past experiences, the organization as a whole will change for the better.
With cloud technology, you are able to empower your employees to make informed decisions quickly and direct their main focus toward delivering personalized care to each resident. Through cloud technology, you are able to access information in real time, anytime.
Where to start?
It can seem like a daunting task to make the switch from a paper-based way of providing care to a cloud-based one. There will undoubtedly be a lot of insecurities and questions asked from managers and employees alike. It is a profound change in their workday, so it is very important to pick a provider that actually cares about implementing the cloud-based technology.
Consequently, it is important to know exactly what the supplier offers in terms of service and support. A good way of gauging this is through customer testimonials and the on-site support offered. The overall potential for cloud-based technology in the care sector is immense. However, this potential can be fulfilled only if it is implemented and embraced by the primary users of the system. Otherwise, all the good intentions of the system cannot be leveraged into better care for the residents.
Read more about how some care homes handled the task of going digital. And, for more information about Microsoft Azure, check out our Microsoft Cloud for Health site.
Learn more about how Microsoft is enabling digital transformation in health.
