In today’s high-tech world, mobility has become a high priority among medical staff. The question is: how do institutions go about adopting a mobile solution? The following is a list of five issues which should be addressed when an institution is developing a mobile strategy. [1]
1. Always having the patient as the beneficiary of the technology. Adoption of technology should always benefit patients.
2. A commitment to an overall long-term IT strategy must be a priority. Connectivity of mobile technologies with EHRs and other mobile technologies, as well as availability and usability should be considered in a developing a mobile strategy.
3. An institutional policy or technology which addresses BYOD. The BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) issue has been an area of controversy. However, eighty-five percent of hospitals support the use of personal for use at work, according to a 2011 survey by Aruba networks.
4. Find companies which offer comprehensive mobile solutions. Connectivity with EHRs, mobile products, and other IT operations tools is essential in developing a mobile strategy.
5. Involvement of key clinical leadership is imperative for success. Clinical input is essential. Clinical leaders are invaluable in evaluating relative value of devices,training of personnel, on-site testing, quality control, and efficiency evaluations.
Mobility is becoming a high priority in many institutions. Finding vendors with expertise in mobile solutions is imperative to operating a successful mobile strategy. For more information on how to develop a mobile strategy, visit woundrounds.com.
[1] Leescher, David. “Five Essentials to Having Your Hospital Go Mobile.” davidleescher.com. Web. 13 August 2012.
