Barbados Today : QEH Digital – Hospital in major data overhaul ‘to enhance patient care’

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is to undergo a complete digital technology overhaul in a bid to improve its healthcare delivery, including telemedicine, QEH officials have announced.

The $130 million capital spending initiative aims to integrate advanced technology, expand telehealth services, and bolster data protection measures.

Chief Operating Officer Christine Greenidge outlined the overhaul emphasising their potential impact on patient care and operational efficiency. “Telehealth is an emerging, sophisticated type of technology where we can actually monitor patients from their home,” Greenidge said. “For example, those patients that have congestive heart failure can be easily monitored from home and don’t have to worry about a monthly or every two-week appointment.”

The expanded telehealth services will enable remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, tracking vital signs such as blood pressure and weight. This approach is expected to reduce the need for frequent office visits whilst allowing for more timely medical interventions.

A cornerstone of the digital overhaul is the transition from paper-based systems to electronic medical records (EMRs). This shift is designed to streamline appointment management and improve patients’ access to their medical information. Hospital officials assert that the new health information systems will not only enhance convenience but also strengthen the protection of personal health information.
Drawing a parallel with technological advancements in other sectors, Greenidge declared: “Just as ATMs revolutionised cash access, the hospital’s digital upgrades will transform patient care management.”

The COO highlighted the potential for increased patient engagement through mobile technology. “Using their personal mobile phone, patients will be able to really hone in on their own medical records. If they had a test, they’ll be able to access it in a couple of days,” Greenidge explained. “It’s about personal responsibility and staying ahead of any type of regimen that may be needed to help someone to maintain their health and safety.”

The wide-ranging initiative encompasses both the acquisition of new technology and the upgrading of existing systems at EH, with a focus on enhancing medical devices and infrastructure. The hospital observes its 60th anniversary in November.
(SM)

Article originally published August 27th, 2024 by Barbados Today