Realizing the Power of Virtual Care

Healthcare organizations expanded virtual care in 2020 at an astounding rate, allowing them to continue caring for patients during the pandemic in ways that addressed safety, convenience and efficiency.

In the process, many providers assembled disparate, disconnected solutions and technology that created silos, inconsistent and poor workflows and less-than-optimal protections for privacy and security. The challenge for providers now is to knit those hastily erected, crisis-driven systems into a cohesive, intentional and strategic platform to provide exceptional virtual care to their patients.

There are compelling reasons for healthcare technology leaders to refine the IT infrastructure that supports virtual care, not in the least because it is poised to become highly competitive due to its effectiveness and efficiency for the provider and convenience for the patient. Providers that can deliver a high-quality digital experience will position themselves as front-runners for both consumers and caregiver talent.

While organizations refine the technologies underpinning virtual care, they also will need to establish appropriate policies and procedures. Together, these will facilitate compliance with regulations and best practices, and will help organizations increase adoption of virtual services by patients and clinicians.

From a competition perspective, virtual care has the potential to significantly alter the healthcare landscape. Maturing capabilities, combined with patients’ embrace of virtual care, open the door to new competitors, disruptions and enhanced consumer expectations. As the field continues to evolve, providers must incorporate these considerations into their post-pandemic business strategies.

Learn more by downloading our white paper: "Realizing the Power of Virtual Care."