Healthcare < Expense Reduction Analysts

 

A new era of healthcare is here.

The evolving digital landscape combined with innovative technology, policy changes, and momentum from a new generation is ushering in an advanced healthcare industry. Professionals in this industry now need to care about being competitive in a way that they didn’t before. In this exciting time, there are lots of trends that can help set you apart – if you pay attention and adapt. Here’s our take on trends that the healthcare industry needs to understand to stay relevant.

Tech is making a difference – and patients have come to expect it.

In the age of Amazon, patients have come to expect a consumer-driven approach to technology. We live in a world of big data and uber-information. Patients feel empowered in a way they never have before, so offering options for self-efficacy and self-advocacy is critical. Many patients expect to schedule appointments online, and an Intuit Health study revealed that 40% of patients 1 would even switch providers to gain such online access. Providing portals where patients can keep up with their care is a must, as well as being cognizant of online reviews and information sharing. Convenience and accessibility are no longer value adds, but necessities for being competitive. Conversely, physicians now have access to patient information instantly, and are able to collaborate more closely with clients. This means great things for both providers and patients.

New marketing revolutionizes potential relationships.

Marketers are facing a unique time where they can engage with customers like never before. Social media and advanced metrics deliver customer information directly to marketing teams. However, they are also more accountable for revenue and lead generation. This has become the case with most industries, and healthcare is no different. Consumers now have access to more information and the tools to influence their decisions when it comes to healthcare. Healthcare brands must strive to do more than inform, but to strike an emotional connection and forge a long-term relationship in order to foster a lifetime of patient care. Healthcare companies should seek to develop meaningful engagements with potential patients and clients.

Business models need to adapt with longer life spans.

People continue to live longer 2 . This means their treatment approaches and budget should also expand. That fact is forcing healthcare systems to replace more well-rounded professionals with increasingly diverse and specialized personnel. Additionally, patient-centric policy changes present ongoing regulatory challenges. All of these factors force hospitals to look for more scalable and streamlined approaches to their business. Working smarter instead of harder is a must, and cost savings across the organization better position healthcare systems to compete in today’s market.

1 3 Critical Elements for Successful Online Scheduling
2 The True Cost of Living a Long Life by Dan Kadlec