The COVID-19 pandemic has changed healthcare forever. Even when the virus has subsided, the sector is unlikely to be the same again.
It will likely not only lead to improved processes to prepare for another pandemic, but it might influence hospital supply chains, talent shortages, and digital health options.
Continue reading to find out how the COVID-19 pandemic will change healthcare.
The Rise of Digital Health Options
As many people have been forced to isolate, many healthcare organizations have depended on digital health tools throughout the pandemic, such as telehealth and remote monitoring.
While the healthcare sector has been slow to introduce technologies in recent years, the sector has been forced to embrace the different tools available to provide a high standard of patient care.
No longer are digital health systems viewed as a luxury, as they are now essential tools for many large and small healthcare organizations.
Therefore, it would not be a surprise if many digital health innovations begin to emerge in the near future, which will enable practitioners to provide patients with more effective virtual care.
The tools could ultimately stop the spreading of various viruses in healthcare settings. Plus, it could also take some of the pressure of practices, as patients can talk to a doctor or nurse virtually instead of attending a physical appointment.
Filling Talent Shortages
Frontline workers have undoubtedly been the biggest heroes throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have come to realize the sacrifices they make each day to provide patients with exceptional care.
It’s for this reason why the younger generation is more likely to follow in their footsteps and pursue a career in the sector.
The added pressure many healthcare professionals have faced in their role could also inspire them to work towards a senior position, improve their skillset, and strengthen the sector.
For example, a registered nurse could pursue a nurse practitioner career, which could help to support hospitals struggling with physician shortages.
Why become a nurse practitioner? It will allow a qualified nurse to take on the same responsibilities as a physician without supervision. Plus, they can improve patient care, standards, and education.
Improving Local Supply Chain Sources
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a spotlight on inadequacies within hospital supply chains, as many organizations have had trouble gaining access to vital medical equipment, such as PPE.
According to a report by the Department of Health and Human Services, many organizations were forced to compete to secure essential supplies.
It is highly likely that many organizations will aim to improve their local supply chain sources, which will ensure they are never caught off-guard again.
For example, many Chicago hospitals are reportedly joining together to create a consortium. Plus, they plan to manufacture PPE locally to decrease their dependence on imports.
The Use of Drones and Robotics
Many healthcare organizations may introduce robotics to clean their facilities daily, which can prevent human exposure to bacteria and viruses.
What’s more, many hospitals, practices, and other medical organizations might use drones as delivery platforms for laboratory and microbiological samples, emergency medical equipment, vaccines, and pharmaceuticals.
Lower Healthcare Costs
It is expected that employers, the government, and private medical payers will attempt to reduce healthcare expenditure once the COVID-19 pandemic is over.
There will likely be a focus on more effective payment models, such as the value-based care (VBC) model that will reimburse a provider based on the value (quality) instead of the number of services.
It could ultimately result in more affordable healthcare services for patients, especially as the industry is starting to embrace connected care and telehealth.
Greater Patient Control
The unprecedented pandemic has resulted in many people developing a greater appreciation for their health.
Members of the public are taking the time to understand the dangers of their weight, health risks, and the benefits of caring for both the mind and body.
For the above reasons, it is likely patients will want to take greater control of their healthcare experience.
For example, they might require greater transparency, request access to digital health systems, or they will want to make an informed choice regarding a treatment’s effectiveness and affordability.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that hospitals, medical practices, and other healthcare organizations are still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is, however, clear that it will both reshape and restructure the sector in different ways, from embracing digital health systems to improving the local supply chain.
It will also ensure the healthcare sector is better prepared should it face another pandemic.
