Healthcare today is very different from a generation ago; it’s even different, in many ways, from a decade ago. It’s always evolving, especially based on new technology and discoveries. What’s coming up in terms of customer service?
Increased Focus on Communication
It’s essential for patients and caregivers to communicate effectively. Patients must convey problems and concerns to caregivers, and caregivers must carry treatments and other recommendations to patients. When communication is weak, it can lead to misunderstandings and improper treatment. The bottom line is that ineffective healthcare delivery increases the likelihood of negative patient outcomes.
Communication between healthcare providers is equally important. Miscommunication during handoffs, such as from an inpatient to an ambulatory setting, is responsible for 80 percent of serious medical errors, as estimated by the Joint Commission. Increased focus on communication in all areas of healthcare has the potential to create significant improvements that will benefit everyone.
Increased Focus on Mental Health
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have become more aware of mental health issues. For so long, many people have suffered in silence, and increasing awareness is a major step. Mental health services improve emotional, psychological, and social well-being, but, most importantly, these programs save lives.
When people think about their health, they often focus on physical aspects. What about mental health? The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Increasing the focus on mental health will help individuals achieve better overall health, but it will also help our society.
Increased Focus on Remaining Current
During COVID-19, healthcare has often involved phone or video calls, home-based services, and other innovations. This has enabled providers to care for patients while limiting everyone’s possible exposure to COVID. Many of those innovations may become much more common in the long run. Providers may look to new opportunities such as telehealth consultations, home healthcare services, non-ER-based primary community care, and more proactive regular health screening.
In the not-too-distant future, telehealth may evolve even more. Emerging technology includes telehealth-connected devices, including stethoscopes, infrared thermometers, and otoscopes, among others. The possibilities associated with this type of technology are endless; people can receive care from home, and that offers great potential for rural communities, people who find it difficult to leave home, and so many others.
Do You Have a Personal Focus?
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. Healthcare is evolving, and we as human beings evolve, too. What are you going to focus on? We’d love to hear about it. When you’re ready for your next assignment, call us at 310.436.3650.