I ran into this article a few weeks ago about Windows 8 tablets and the healthcare industry, where the author wrote about how, “Windows 8-based tablets might also have a very substantial role to play in healthcare. In fact, Windows 8 tablets might, in some cases, be even more appropriate to healthcare than iOS or Android devices.” There are two big reasons for this:
Security
Android and iOS devices are not known for being the most secure on the market. Laws such as HIPAA and HITECH necessitate a high level of security, as “the cost — from both a legal and PR point of view — of a major breach could be extensive.” Windows 8 has new security features built right in, plus it works smoothly with Exchange, SharePoint, Windows 2008 and Windows 2012 Server. All of this adds up to better security overall.
Ease of Use
While a lot of patient rooms have computers providers can log-in to in order to do charting, they generally require you to do this multiple times, once to get on the computer and again for each separate app. If the providers fails to log out, this could also create HIPAA compliance risk, as patient data could be exposed. Or, someone other than that practitioner might be able to create prescriptions and alter/create electronic medical record entries as said provider.
Medical professionals carrying a Windows 8 tablet as a virtual “chart” could save time, because only one log-in allows access to every application, like Exchange, SharePoint, Charting, Prescription writing, or scan reviewing software for looking at X-ray, CT & MRI results. A nurse supervisor could also use Lync to securely communicate with support staff, in real time, reducing call traffic volume.
The writer of the article did mention that Windows 8 tablets tend to be more expensive, and not many of them are available just yet that are small enough to fit in a lab coat pocket. But the vertically-integrated ecosystem overall will lend itself well to the healthcare environment.
Find out more about our work with the healthcare industry here.