Community and rural hospitals are critical to their local areas, serving as the primary providers of complex healthcare needs and major employers. In fact, in 2020, rural hospitals contributed to one out of every 12 rural jobs in the U.S. and generated $220 billion in economic activity. However, smaller hospitals often face significant challenges in today's healthcare environment, including changing reimbursements, workforce shortages, and rising costs, leading to financial struggles and closures. Between 2010 and 2015, an average of 21 hospitals closed each year, with 47 closing in 2019 and 19 in 2020. In 2022, 290 hospitals were attacked by ransomware.
To ensure these hospitals can continue to serve their communities, it is essential for them to have access to the latest technology on par with larger hospitals, while ensuring the security of their IT systems. Although the factors involved in their success are complex, technological equality is one contributor that should not be overlooked.
When rural hospitals have access to the latest technology, they are better equipped to provide patients with cutting-edge treatments and procedures. For example, telemedicine technology allows rural hospitals to connect with specialists at larger hospitals, giving patients access to advanced care without having to travel long distances. Electronic health records (EHRs) can also help rural hospitals improve patient care by streamlining communication between healthcare providers and ensuring that patient data is accurate and up-to-date.
In addition to improving patient care, technological equality can also help rural hospitals reduce costs and improve efficiency. For example, the implementation of robotic process automation (RPA) can automate routine administrative tasks, freeing up hospital staff to focus on patient care. Similarly, cloud computing technology can help rural hospitals reduce their IT infrastructure costs by moving data storage and computing power offsite.
However, achieving technological equality is not always easy for rural hospitals. Limited budgets and a lack of IT expertise can make it challenging for these hospitals to invest in the latest technology and implement it effectively. To address these challenges, some organizations have developed programs to help rural hospitals improve their technological capabilities. For example, the Rural Health Information Hub provides technical assistance to rural hospitals looking to implement EHRs, telemedicine, and other digital health tools. Another example, are working with MSP’s such as Pioneer Technology who assist in aiding your IT department, without the onboard employee payroll expense.
In conclusion, achieving technological equality between rural hospitals and the largest hospitals in the United States is essential for ensuring that patients in rural areas have access to high-quality healthcare services. By investing in the latest technology and implementing it effectively, rural hospitals can improve patient care, reduce costs, and operate more efficiently. Through collaborations and support from various entities, rural hospitals can bridge the digital divide and make strides towards better healthcare for all.
https://www.aha.org/statistics/fast-facts-us-hospitals
https://www.emsisoft.com/en/blog/43258/the-state-of-ransomware-in-the-us-report-and-statistics-2022/