What's the Forecast for Cloud Computing in Healthcare?

Abstract

A cloud front has moved in—cloud computing that is! Many advantages and efficiencies make cloud computing networks attractive. Next to the Internet, cloud computing may very well be the biggest information technology (IT) systems game-changer. Most large IT system providers are heavily invested in preparing for computing that’s 100% web. All computing is done via the browser. Clouds are an attractive network infrastructure alternative due to overall reduced IT costs, faster deployment times, increased efficiencies, and increases in flexibility and choice. Cool things begin to happen. For example, with reduced infrastructure and capital equipment costs, smaller institutions may find it easier to afford electronic health record (EHR) systems or apply more of the budget to staff or other operational expenditure needs. Cloud computing refers to computing in which information, services, and resources are provided as needed over a network (the “cloud”). What’s more, the on-demand resources can be available with little system management effort or service provider interaction. Just as rapidly, they can be decommissioned when no longer needed. Think of it: Any application in the cloud is available to you on demand with no installation process or need to back it up. The cloud also manages any required software licensing. In this way, a sudden need for added server space can be met immediately (aka “server space elasticity”). The cloud can provide new applications as well, for example, the coediting of a document at the same time, with one person working on an iPad and another on a PC.