Alex G. Lee, Ph.D. Esq. CLP’s Post

A common question I get is, "what is healthtech?" There are many applications of healthtech (healthcare technology). But I want to highlight 4 "hot areas" of healthtech I believe are transforming patient care, informed by HealthTech2Care's experience. — 1. AI in Healthcare This is the #1 hot area. A recent Silicon Valley Bank report found that 1 in 4 dollars invested in healthcare are going towards companies leveraging AI. Healthcare organizations are adopting AI in different ways based on what they need most. Here are 3 areas where I see AI being adopted today: (A) Enhance Diagnostics AI quickly analyzes large amounts of medical data (e.g., digital images, PGHD). For example, AI-powered diagnostics detect cancer in tissue samples faster than a trained human eye. (B) Personalize Treatment & Coverage AI considers patient data to create personalized treatment plans. For example, personalized digital coaching for chronic disease management. Studies show that personalized post-acute treatment significantly enhances patient recovery rates and reduces costs. AI also analyzes complex benefits information in health insurance plans, simplifying your coverage options and making healthcare decisions easier. (C) Automate Care Coordination AI automates routine care coordination tasks, allowing healthcare staff to focus more on patient care. For example, AI Nurse chatbots assist patients with scheduling appointments, surgery prep, and managing long-term chronic conditions post-surgery. — 2. Contextualizing Patient Data Raw data is useless without context, especially when patient data is both structured (e.g., demographics, vitals) and unstructured (e.g., dictated notes, discharge summaries). Creating longitudinal views of patient data has long been challenging. However, advancements in interoperability standards like HL7 FHIR FOUNDATION’s Release 5 and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services interoperability initiatives, along with modern data solutions, are making an impact. Advanced platforms can now process thousands of incompatible data sources in seconds and run complex queries against billions of patient records in minutes. This helps providers make data-driven decisions that improve outcomes of entire patient populations. These solutions adhere to strict data privacy/security regulations (e.g., HIPAA, HITECH). — 3. Virtual Care/Health Healthcare providers are adopting virtual care at scale. Technologies like Telehealth and AI-driven health interventions are improving access and equity, particularly for at-risk patients and underserved populations. Telehealth includes clinical services provided remotely, such as RPM and CCM. The growth of virtual health is supported by evolving reimbursement policies (e.g., CMS 2024 Physician Fee Schedule) and a focus on generating meaningful data about its benefits. For example, patient-reported outcomes (e.g., controlling BP) can lead to improved Star ratings, resulting in higher reimbursement.

Here’s your recap of last week’s health IT news 🗞️ 👇 🤖 AI Clinician Assistant • Ochsner Health announced an enterprise-wide agreement with DeepScribe. 📋 Patient Administration • Weave is now integrated with eClinicalWorks.    • Phreesia is now available through Oracle Health's Marketplace.    • Samaritan Medical Center selected Loyal for managing provider listings. 💼 Provider and Practice Administration • MedStar Health is partnering with RLDatix on AI-based tools for analyzing patient safety events.    • Kontakt.io released a new solution to track hand washing and gamify compliance.    • Epic announced a new feature allowing users to securely release their healthcare information to apps of their choice. 🔁 RCM • Infinitus Systems, Inc. released a new instant benefits verification tool for commercial insurance patients seeking specialty medication.    • Providence expanded its implementation of Xsolis, designed to manage length of stay, mitigate denial risk, and ensure proper reimbursement.    • R1 RCM is being acquired by investment funds associated with TowerBrook Capital Partners L.P. and Clayton Dubilier & Rice. 📱 Patient Support and Communications • uMETHOD Health, Inc. is partnering with Linus Health on an integrated solution for earlier detection of cognitive impairment plus care planning. ⚙️ Clinical Operations • SimplePractice launched an ePrescribe platform following its acquisition of certain assets of Luminello, Inc.    • VitalHub Corp. is acquiring the clinical decision support vendor MedCurrent Corporation. 🧑💻 Virtual and At-Home Care • AvaSure has acquired the smart room technology vendor Ouva in an effort to expand its AI capabilities.    • VSee is partnering with Ava Robotics to give remote providers an inpatient presence. 🍎 VBC • Zing Health is leveraging Story Health for eligible members with the greatest risk of poor heart failure outcomes. 🧠 Food For Thought • A federal judge granted an injunction against PointClickCare for alleged information blocking tactics. Elion advisor Brendan Keeler shared a great post about some of the potential implications of this decision. https://lnkd.in/eb8F3FEr    • The The Cedars-Sinai Accelerator program announced its 10th class, and the theme was unequivocally AI with a strong bias toward clinical applications. We remain eager to see this shift from back-office use-cases toward patient- and provider-facing clinical solutions.    • UW Health and Epic announced the release of the National Roundtable on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare’s recommendations to lawmakers. The TL;DR: Lawmakers should foster innovation across the patient experience (i.e. beyond traditional care settings, such as virtual, in-home, etc) and play a strong role in ensuring equitable access, minimal care disparities, and local validation.

𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞: 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦? Data is the foundation of healthcare analytics, but have you ever wondered where all this information originates? Knowing the primary sources of healthcare data can shed light on how we analyze and use it to improve patient outcomes and drive efficiency 𝟏.𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 (𝐄𝐇𝐑𝐬) 🖥️ EHRs are digital versions of a patient’s medical history. They contain a wealth of information, including diagnoses, treatments, lab results, and prescribed medications. EHRs are important to understanding patient health journeys and are the foundation for many analytics projects. 𝟐. 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 💼 This originates from insurance companies and provides details about healthcare services billed to insurers. It includes information on services provided, diagnoses, procedures, and costs. This helps to understand how healthcare services are used, identify areas with high cost and  developing value-based care strategies. 𝟒.𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭-𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 📱 With the rise of wearables, mobile health apps, and remote monitoring devices, patients are generating their own health data. This includes activity levels, heart rates, glucose levels, and more. These offer real-time insights into lifestyle impacts on health and also support predictive analysis and interventions, especially in the management of chronic disease 𝟒.𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 🌎 Public health agencies (e.g., CDC, WHO) gather and share data on disease prevalence, vaccination rates, and health trends. This data provides insights at the population level, allowing healthcare organizations to understand community health risks, track disease outbreaks, and plan preventive measures. 𝟓. 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐲𝐬 📝 Surveys and questionnaires provide insight into patient experiences and quality of life. This data helps improve patient engagement in care and assess treatment effectiveness of treatment. 𝟔. 𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 🧪 Data from clinical trials, drug efficacy studies, and pharmacovigilance programs help track drug safety and effectiveness. This data is important for making evidence-based decisions about treatments and understanding drug interactions and side effects. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭? Each source provides a unique perspective on healthcare, and combining them creates a more complete picture of patient health.  For healthcare analysts, knowing where data originates helps us ask better questions, interpret results better, and contribute to meaningful change. Which of these data sources have you used?  Any specific challenges with handling them? #dataanalytics #healthcare

Integrated Data is Pivotal in the Next Era of Technology and Healthcare The World Economic Forum's latest article, "Why Integrated Data is Critical to Personalizing Healthcare," provides the following insight, underscoring a transformative shift towards a more personalized, efficient, and accessible healthcare system powered by integrated data. As we delve into this paradigm, it's essential to understand not only the 'why' but also the 'how' of integrated data's pivotal role in healthcare. At its core, personalized healthcare is about recognizing the unique genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that affect an individual's health moving away from a one sized fits all methodology. The linchpin of this becomes integrated data, involving the seamless aggregation, analysis, and application of health data from diverse sources - electronic health records, genomic data, wearable technology, and even social determinants of health. Not only does this provide a holistic view but a way to forecast outcomes and optimize care. This in turn requires the massive hurdle of siloed data sources and fragmentations across various platforms and institutions. The World Economic Forum's article illuminates how integrated data ecosystems can bridge these silos, fostering collaboration across healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers. By doing so, it paves the way for a healthcare system that is not only more interconnected but also more equitable and effective. The implications of integrated data in personalizing healthcare are profound: 1. Enhanced Patient Outcomes: Tailored treatment plans can significantly improve patient outcomes, reducing hospital readmissions and improving quality of life. 2. Cost Efficiency: By targeting the most effective treatments, healthcare systems can avoid unnecessary spending, making healthcare more affordable and sustainable. 3. Preventive Healthcare: With predictive analytics, healthcare providers can identify at-risk individuals and intervene before conditions worsen, shifting the focus from treatment to prevention. While the benefits are clear, the path to fully integrated data in healthcare is fraught with challenges. Privacy concerns, data security, and the need for robust data governance frameworks are paramount. Additionally, the digital divide poses a significant barrier, potentially exacerbating health disparities if not addressed. As we stand on the brink of this healthcare revolution, it's crucial for stakeholders across the spectrum to unite in overcoming these challenges. Various stakeholders must engage in an ongoing dialogue to ensure a transition towards integrated data-driven healthcare is both inclusive and equitable. This article serves as a call for this unified effort through which we can unlock a future where healthcare is not just personalized but also more humane, efficient, and just. https://lnkd.in/g3SUs4uP

💡 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐈 𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐤? The integration of #AI into clinical workflows offers immense potential, but we must weigh the benefits against the financial burden it could impose on both patients and #healthcare systems. ** This post was inspired by the article published in NEJM AI by Sneha Shah Jain, MD, MBA et al. Thank you 🙏🏻 for such a thought-provoking paper (link to the paper in the comments) ⚠️ Critical considerations include: • 💵 Upfront costs of AI technology and infrastructure. Implementing AI technologies often involves significant upfront costs for 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞, and the 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 needed to support these tools. These expenses may be passed on to healthcare providers and ultimately to patients, increasing the cost of care. AI systems, especially those reliant on large datasets, may also require ongoing investment in 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞, 𝐜𝐲𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. • 📉 Disparities in access for underserved or rural communities. AI technologies can widen disparities in access to care, as not all healthcare institutions, especially those serving lower-income or rural communities, can afford or have the infrastructure to adopt these systems. This could lead to unequal access to the latest AI-driven diagnostics and treatments, putting underserved populations at risk of poorer #outcomes. • 🧑⚕️ Over-reliance on AI leading to unnecessary tests or treatments. If AI-driven recommendations are perceived as more accurate or valuable than clinical judgment, it could lead to increased use of unnecessary tests or treatments, driving up healthcare costs without a proportional benefit to patient outcomes. • ⏱️ Training and maintenance demands for healthcare professionals. Clinicians may require extensive training to use AI tools effectively. This increases the indirect costs associated with implementing AI technologies • ⚖️ Reimbursement challenges and out-of-pocket costs for patients. Insurance systems may be slow to adjust their 𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐦𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬 to include AI-driven treatments or diagnostics. Without proper coverage, patients might face out-of-pocket costs for AI-based care, which could exacerbate financial toxicity. ❗️We need to ensure AI serves not only as a tool for innovation but also aligns with the goal of equitable, ➡️ affordable care. 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘈𝘐 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦? Spencer Dorn Graham Walker, MD Tina Shah MD MPH American College of Cardiology American Society of Echocardiography American Heart Association Harborview Medical Center UW Medicine UW Medicine + Heart Institute University of Washington University of Alabama at Birmingham Harvard University Jefferson Health #medicine #science #patientcare #quality #artificiaintellogence

How could a population health director harness the power of cutting-edge technology to revolutionize healthcare management. First, they utilize their population health software to stratify a cohort of patients, specifically targeting those at risk—such as prediabetics (who constitute 33% of the country’s population). But that’s just the beginning. Next, they seamlessly integrate robotic process automation into their workflow. By doing so, they streamline care plans, significantly reducing administrative costs by 5-10 times. Imagine the efficiency gains when repetitive tasks are automated, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on what truly matters: patient well-being. What if the Director needed proof for their business case for the CFO? They could use process automation that applies six sigma like techniques to map out current process and show a before and after with ROI. But wait, there’s more! Our forward-thinking director also embraces virtual agent technology. These intelligent agents engage patients, facilitate appointment scheduling, and diligently follow up on medication adherence. The result? Improved patient outcomes, increased satisfaction, and enhanced revenue. And here’s the clincher: By implementing this comprehensive solution, our visionary director not only saves substantial funds but also boosts their STAR ratings. And who’s partnering with them on this transformative journey? None other than SS&C Health and Blue Prism—industry leaders committed to shaping the future of healthcare. In summary, this strategic approach isn’t just about dollars saved; it’s about lives improved. Our population health director is at the forefront of innovation, and their impact will resonate far beyond the boardroom. 🌟🚀 The following article is third party opinion confirming the above scenario. https://lnkd.in/eSJgKnCz

Read my latest blog describing how healthcare in the Middle East can use AI to improve patient experiences and care outcomes. Join me as I delve into the shift towards personalized care, centering on the enhancement of patient loyalty and value, along with the key strategies for improving healthcare in the region through accessibility, affordability, education, and empowerment. 🚀Read the blog here: https://lnkd.in/g7_y4Zpu #healthcareinnovation #patientexperience #artificalintelligence Akif Khan | Shubham Mishra | Pankaj Singh Bhati | Paul Grundy | Sachin Saxena | Innovaccer Middle East

Did you know that the average per-day hospital cost is $2,883, and the average stay is 4.6 days, resulting in an average cost of $13,262? Even when healthcare consumers are equipped with insurance, these expenses often are unaffordable. Find out how hospitals can reduce costs with conversational AI: https://lnkd.in/gcWypaPq #providertech #healthcarecosts #hospitaladmission #reducecosts #healthit #healthtech #patientengagement #patientoutreach #healthcareautomation #conversationalai #healthoutcomes #healthit #digitalhealthcare #healthai #artificialIntelligence #HealthcareInnovation

46% of Americans believe AI will improve healthcare in the next 5 years! 🤔 What do you think? Would you ever consider getting an AI doctor? We recently surveyed 1,007 Americans about their trust in healthcare practitioners and the future of AI in medical services. Some interesting insights were: ✅Idaho leads in trust with the most highly-rated family doctors. ✅39% of Americans would trust their doctor less if they used AI—but 53% of those who’ve experienced AI-assisted care trust the results! ✅Americans are most likely to trust older (44%) and female (37%) healthcare practitioners. ✅Over 1 in 5 Americans (21%) reported receiving an AI-assisted diagnosis or treatment plan, with 53% of these individuals trusting the results. 🔗 Check out the full article for more: https://lnkd.in/gNczr55V #Tebra #PracticeAutomation #HealthcareCommunity #CalendarManagement #HealthcarePractice #HealthcareProfessionals #Tebra #PatientCare #HealthTech #Healthcare #HealthcareMarketing #HealthcareInnovation #PracticeGrowth #DigitalTransformation #HealthcareTech #HealthcareEvolution #PatientCenteredCare #DigitalHealthcare #EHR #ElectronicHealthRecord #ElectronicHealthRecords #IndependentPhysicians #NursePractitioners