USA globe . “ The Microsoft health vertical is substantial , with over 168,000 health customers and an estimated 30,000 partners , we have a broad base for telemetry .” Kos explains .
Central to the Microsoft business model is the concept of partnership . “ We essentially have two core functions . Engineer high quality , interoperable software platforms , and support partners who use those platforms to create solutions .” Kos rationalizes . He goes on to note that it is common for health organizations to have thousands of applications in their technology portfolio , and an ecosystem approach is required to manage information effectively .
This aggregate view allows Microsoft to spot emerging technology trends , view cutting-edge innovation , and disseminate best-practice . He goes on to say “ Healthcare IT has historically been focused on automation through systems of record , like the EMR . That ’ s an important step , but just the start of the journey . Unlocking value through systems of insight , collaboration and innovation is where transformation occurs .”
Digital transformation So , if the EMR isn ’ t the end-state , what does digital transformation look like in health ? Microsoft uses a model based on the Quadruple aim 1 .
1 ) Engage patients 2 ) Empower care teams 3 ) Optimize clinical and operational effectiveness 4 ) Transform the continuum
In fact , this model might just as readily be applied to other industries like retail or banking , because the drivers of digital transformation are affecting every industry . “ Think about how booking travel , shopping online , catching a ride , or even just watching a movie , has changed in the last decade . As consumers , we expect more today . Now think about the patient experience . We ’ ve got a long way to go .” Kos observes . Most health organizations have a portfolio of initiatives underway that map to these four pillars , whether they ’ ve consciously thought about it in this framework or not .
1
Bodenheimer , T . & Sinsky , C . “ From Triple to Quadruple Aim : Care of the patient requires care of the provider ” Ann Fam Med Nov / Dec 2014 , vol . 12 no . 6 673-576