Computers in the Workplace

Computers are everywhere these days. I cannot think of an industry where computers do not play a role in some shape or form in today’s workplace. Although the choices are endless, I have chosen to focus on the healthcare industry. I have worked in healthcare in both hospital and long-term care environments; information technology has come a long way in years past. Years ago, medical records and charting information were handwritten, placed in folders, and stored in rows of color-coded file systems. Today things are much more convenient and orderly as computers make entering and organizing patient information more efficient.

In hospital settings, it is now possible to perform many tests and scans at the bedside, with results sent directly to a patient's chart electronically.  Minimally evasive laparoscopic surgeries are now possible, eliminating the need for extended recovery periods with almost no scaring for the patient, unlike years past when surgeries often resulted in doctors needing to make large incisions to find and correct a problem. If we think about our lives during the pandemic, many of us were able to attend doctor’s visits from the comfort of our homes via Telehealth visits. Let us also not forget how easy computers have made it to send and receive medical information when needed.

Information technology has also made it easier for those working in long-term care.  Many facilities now provide staff with tablets to track residents' daily activities and medication.  Information entered on the tablets is sent to the resident database, making tracking and adjusting care plans easier. Individuals working in the healthcare industry must keep information technology skillsets related to their roles up to date to keep up with technological changes.  Most employers require their staff to participate in training to prepare them for implementing new technology.

In the next ten years and beyond, the possibilities in healthcare will be vast. Artificial Intelligence is now being used in the medical field to assist healthcare professionals in caring for their patients. “Predictive analytic methods allow providers to determine individuals at risk for developing severe infections or chronic diseases” (McNemar, 2021). However, although artificial intelligence has many positive possibilities, healthcare providers must understand that it is not perfect; and the possibility of a mistake is still present.

Reference:

McNemar, E. (2021, August 2). What Are the Benefits of Predictive Analytics in Healthcare? HealthITAnalytics. https://healthitanalytics.com/news/what-are-the-benefits-of-predictive-analytics-in-healthcare artificial intelligence has many positive possibilities, healthcare providers must understand that it is not perfect; and the possibility of a mistake is still present.