Core healthcare technologies up close

Examine the trends in core healthcare technologies of EMR/ EHk, PACS/VNA/RIS, HIMS, and LIMS in this special feature

- NAGESH JOSHI

Technology has transformed many aspects of healthcare, and India's healthcare sector is no exception. In recent years, technology adoption in healthcare has seen a significant increase in the country, with a growing focus on digitalizing medical records, improving diagnostic accuracy, and enhancing operational efficiency. Four core technology categories that have been instrumental in driving this transformation in India's healthcare sector are:

i. EMR/EHR ii. PACS, VNA, and RIS iii. HIMS. iv. LIMS

This article will explore the current adoption levels and the future scope of these technologies in India's healthcare sector.

1. EMR and EHR Electronic medical records (EMR) and electronic health records (EHR) have become vital tools in managing patient health records in India's healthcare sector.

EMR and EHR allow doctors to access patient health records electronically, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly. These records contain a wealth of information, including medical history, allergies, medications, test results, and treatment plans. EMR and EHR systems in India are primarily being implemented in large hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Dr Deepak P Balani, chief of medical services at Sakra World Hospital, observes that EMR is incorporated into many of the HIMS today, but its functions are sparingly used. "EMR requires careful inputting by the healthcare professional and is seen as a burden by her. Unlike in the US where Obamacare and the Insurance sector ensured near- 100 percent EMR, of the four categories considered here, this has seen the least adoption in our country." Paper records are maintained as a rule. Electronic Health Records, as opposed to mere EMR, are the integrated, portable form of health records.

Scanned documents usually constitute EHR besides diagnostics reports available in e-form.