USA urban area ,” reflects Nath . “ But transforming technology is much more challenging than in more developed areas because , for example , we can provide patient information through a portal , but when our patient goes home , some may not necessarily have a computer or wi-fi access .
“ If we could change this , patients would not have to make a phone call or come and visit a clinic ,” he adds . “ They would be able to communicate with their physicians through telemedicine and telehealth tools . We could see more patients at home , rather than at our clinics . As much as we ’ re pushing this information as an organisation , there is a lot of work that we , and the government , need to do for the community itself .”
On top of the need to provoke deep change within communities , Nath says the healthcare space also needs to have a significant culture shift amongst healthcare staff .
“ Employing these technologies is a challenge but it ’ s really about understanding the needs of our staff and how we can provide the technological solutions for the puzzles they need to solve ,” he says . “ That ’ s the key to success .
“ Once they see the value of technology , it becomes much easier to deploy . Therefore , we take smaller steps , to pilot the technology and roll it out slowly – that ’ s how you change the cultural barrier or shift to a success . There ’ s no quick win . I am more interested in sustainable growth that brings added value to the organisation .”
Nath ’ s pride for SUNY Downstate Medical Center shines throughout our conversation .
This admiration and commitment to both the institution , its staff , and students also transcends throughout the Center ’ s technology strategy , and it is this which is helping the medical Center become a leading player in the healthcare space and serve the residents of Brooklyn . www . gigabitmagazine . com 137