In this episode of Talking HealthTech, Peter Birch catches up with John Poli, Industry Principal for Healthcare at RingCentral.
They dive into how digital communication is flipping the script on healthcare, making it more efficient and accessible for everyone involved.
This episode was recorded live at the HIMSS 2025 conference in Las Vegas.
A New Age for Healthcare Communication
Gone are the days when healthcare communication was just about phone calls and pagers. John points out that bringing services from a cloud-based approach to all communication needs is a brand-new world. With cloud-based platforms like RingCentral, healthcare providers can now tap into a complete suite of services: voice, video, messaging, you name it, across the globe, making it easier to keep everyone in the loop.
The need for unified communications (UCaaS) and contact centres (CCaaS) is skyrocketing because, let's face it, healthcare is complicated. These powerful platforms are helping to build effective communication networks tailored specifically for healthcare settings.
Improving Patient Interaction
Today's healthcare is all about connecting with patients seamlessly. Digital tools like chatbots and voice recognition systems are changing how patients interact with their doctors. The interface between providers and the community at large has evolved, offering new ways to think about managing patient interactions.
Especially in countries like the United States, moving towards digital experiences means patients get their care faster and more tailored to their specific needs. AI plays a huge role here, turning each patient interaction into an opportunity for better care.
Telehealth: Coming to a Living Room Near You
Telehealth has come a long way, especially spurred by the challenges of COVID-19. With secure, cloud-based platforms, healthcare providers now deliver remote care that's as solid as in-person visits. Telehealth and remote care are trends that will only become more prevalent as populations age and chronic diseases demand more efficient management. Its not just for convenience; its for reaching more people and doing it efficiently.
AI: The Secret Sauce in Modern Healthcare
Integrating artificial intelligence into these communication systems is like adding a supercharger to delivering healthcare. AI helps turn conversation data into smart insights, improving healthcare resource allocation and reducing burnout among clinicians.
The intersection of AI and communication systems is enhancing healthcare delivery in unprecedented ways. It's moving beyond the basics and using tech to make a real difference in health outcomes.
Thinking Global, Acting Local
Digital healthtech isn't just a one-size-fits-all; it varies around the world. In the United States, there's a big focus on cutting costs and boosting patient engagement through digital channels. Meanwhile, Australia is making strides with its own innovative solutions.
Every country's healthcare system has its own rules and needs, making finding the right digital solution a bit of a puzzle. However, each piece fits eventually, helping create more efficient services tailored to specific regions.
Why Cloud-Based Solutions are Game Changers
Cloud solutions like RingCentral are seriously reshaping healthcare communications, offering easy integrations with existing systems like EHRs and nurse call systems. Thanks to advanced APIs, healthcare providers can mix and match solutions to fit their specific needs best.
Switching from old-school on-premises systems to cloud solutions isnt just about swapping out tech. It involves solid project management and ensuring patients dont feel a blip. RingCentral's approach to implementation involves a comprehensive partnership with healthcare providers to ensure seamless adoption at a pace that suits their needs.
Peeking into the Future of Healthcare Communication
With digital innovation charging forward, the future promises exciting advancements in how we talk and interact in healthcare. AI insights coupled with flexible cloud solutions mean healthcare providers can improve patient engagement, care coordination, and remote service delivery.
Technology should be a tool to alleviate burdens, not add to them. With this mindset, the future of healthcare is looking bright and patient-focused. Moving ahead, tech providers, healthcare professionals, and patients working together will unlock more potential for digital communication in healthcare.