In the past, clinics and hospitals used to rely on technologies that required significant capital for server racks, electricity for power and cooling, and full-time IT staff for the maintenance of the infrastructure.

With cloud computing, doctors and medical practitioners can now use cloud services to store patient information.

Patient care has indeed become increasingly digital, with nearly all public and private hospitals in Singapore adopting electronic health records (EHRs) and migrating to the cloud. Clinics have also replaced their antiquated paper-based systems with cutting-edge cloud-based content management systems.

Moreover, teleconsult services for those who wish to have their consultations in the comfort of their home and away from the transmission risk posed by the pandemic has also highlighted the necessity of cloud technology in this industry.

How is cloud computing used in healthcare?
The concept of cloud computing is a way to enable critical computing resources accessible from anywhere, at any time, and on demand. All of the complicated infrastructure required to run an application can be supplied as a service using cloud computing. In a nutshell, the infrastructure is outsourced to a third-party company.

Benefits and advantages of cloud computing in healthcare
With cloud technology as a tool, clinicians can access data in real-time and on-demand. Cloud-based systems are distinguished by up-to-date patient information, as opposed to offline systems that are not capable of immediate synchronization. To put it another way, the right patient information is given to the right people at the right time and in the right location.

Real-time and on-demand data access
Clinicians are able to access data real-time through cloud-based softwares. Such systems are distinguished by updated patient data, unlike offline systems that are not capable of automatic synchronizations. Here, when a patient pulls up their information, every bit of information is available that would allow the doctor to make the soundest, most informed decision.

Reduce cost
Physicians and clinics can save money on hardware, software, and services by using the cloud. This is due to the fact that cloud computing service users only pay for what they use. This enables for the efficient and cost-effective use of demand-driven resources.

Secure data storage
The cloud computing provider guarantees data security and privacy. Data stored in the cloud is protected against incidents such as device failure. Redundancy systems are integrated into data centers that store these data, allowing for quick disaster recovery and business continuity.

Scalability
You may easily and quickly expand and scale your business. When you need extra storage space for your data, cloud computing gives you a lot more control and freedom. There’s no need to spend money on new hardware or software; simply increase your cloud storage capacity.