Kaiser Permanente CIO Dick Daniels: Consumer-driven model can transform care
Healthcare is undergoing a dramatic transformation by adopting new business models, advanced technology and clinical protocols. But while the focus has always been on the patient, the industry is still searching for effective ways to connect with the consumer.
But Kaiser Permanente is committed to implementing a holistic model that recognizes the value of the consumer in the care equation and has made strides in their efforts, said Kaiser CIO Richard Daniels.
“Consumer expectations and needs are a primary consideration for everything we do,” Daniels said. “We believe that individuals need to have access to information and services in ways that are welcoming and convenient to them in order to manage their health effectively. We consider all aspects, including how patients experience the selection of the health plan that best meets their needs, the care they receive when they come to one of our facilities, and the access they have to care from wherever they may be.”
Kaiser’s consumer strategy is about bringing design and technology together in its medical facilities to transform how members experience in-person care, as well as providing ways for members to engage digitally — anytime and anywhere — to manage their health.
“These pieces come together to form a connected, end-to-end experience that improves consumers’ health as well as the cost and quality of healthcare,” Daniels said.
New Kaiser outpatient facilities are designed to be welcoming spaces that feature technology to enable patients to efficiently check in remotely or on site, that make medical exams an engaging discussion with clinicians supported by a large-screen, interactive video monitor and that feature additional conveniences like a text alert when the patient's prescription is ready at the on-site pharmacy.
The new model also focuses on using hospital design and technology to enhance the patient experience, Daniels said.
“Our new hospital that will open this spring in San Diego will feature a host of new technologies, including a digital, interactive map of the facility, a large interactive monitor in the patient's room to access information, dining options and entertainment, and mobile digital devices that enable care teams to quickly access the information and equipment they need to provide high-quality care.”
While healthcare is already “highly enabled and dependent on technology,” Daniels maintained that “the pace and depth of technology evolution will continue to accelerate, which brings the potential for rapid advancement in all aspects of healthcare.”
Daniels’ presentation “Transforming Care Through a Consumer-Driven Model” is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 23, at noon in Room W208C.
HIMSS17 runs from Feb. 19-23, 2017 at the Orange County Convention Center.
This article is part of our ongoing coverage of HIMSS17. Visit Destination HIMSS17 for previews, reporting live from the show floor and after the conference.
