While the technology exists, many healthcare organizations struggle with data capture due to inconsistent processes or procedures, or a general lack of governance. Becoming “data-driven” can provide a competitive advantage and enable healthcare organizations to develop long-term value.
Data-driven healthcare organizations share similar characteristics. They have a proven history of making decisions based on data rather than intuition. They also plan and execute strategies to invest in the future development of data to improve healthcare operations. Data-driven healthcare organizations make it a priority to increase the data literacy level of employees to ensure that the workforce as a whole uses analytical thinking to make decisions.
Here are eight steps for becoming a data-driven healthcare organization.
Data maturity refers to the extent to which a business is using its data. The higher the data maturity level, the more an organization uses data to inform its processes and procedures. Data maturity is generally broken down into stages, starting with organizations that are just getting started with their data strategy. The stages of maturity then progress to the top level which consists of innovators who use data to create algorithms and remain a step ahead of the competition.
Organizations that want to become more data-driven must determine which analytics best align with their business goals. These insights can help organizations discover new business opportunities and gain a better understanding of their patients, networks and influences.
Before a data structure is changed, it is important to thoroughly analyze any existing data structure to determine where improvements can be made. Data structures are a means of managing large amounts of data efficiently for uses such as internet indexing services and large databases. There are many different types of data structures.It’s important to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the structure to determine if a different solution would be better suited for the organization.
Electronic health records (EHRs) are commonly used to improve healthcare processes and better serve patients. However, not all EHR software is created equal. EHR complexities like time-consuming operations, frequent errors and difficulty of use can have the opposite effect of the software intention and slow down operations. It’s critical to have a centralized EHR software solution that can handle the features and integrations that modern healthcare facilities need to be successful.
While it is easy to create large amounts of data, it is not always so easy to harness its insights. Data integration plays a major role in becoming a more data-driven healthcare organization. This process involves combining data from various sources to help business leaders analyze and make wiser decisions.
Creating a data-driven culture in an organization requires the entire workforce to play a role in sustaining an organization with data at its core. Allow employees to contribute their own ideas and strategies for metrics. By getting employees involved in the process, it can help create a shift in mindset and establish practices that are more likely to stick.
Data entry errors can slow down efficiency and create confusion between departments. There are many ways to reduce common data entry issues, such as training employees on the importance of data, hiring sufficient staff, providing a good work environment and updating systems on a regular basis.
Becoming a data-driven healthcare organization can have countless benefits, such as improved productivity, reduced operational costs and increased revenue. To learn more about how to refine your healthcare organization’s data maturity, contact the IT consultants at Hartman Executive Advisors today.