Tech Silver linings

Welcome to Pharmacy Daily’s weekly comment feature. This week’s contributor is Gerard Stevens, Managing Director, Webstercare.

We’re all seeking silver linings at the moment. Australians have been forced to change their daily behaviours like never before… and succeeding!

It reminds us of humanity’s adaptability under duress. It encourages us that positive behavioural changes are possible.

Top of my list is a sector-wide uptake of technology-driven solutions – both existing and emerging – to reduce risks and improve efficiencies across the health system. Pockets of best practice are apparent, but this needs to evolve and become usual practice.

The corona crisis reminds us of the absolute need to reduce unnecessary risk. And as we emerge, organisations will feel more pressure than ever to make do with less. These goals are usually at odds. But technology embraces both.

Aged care facilities are a case in point. Current best practice already minimises the need for doctors and registered nurses to be physically present. We can already access and analyse big data in real-time to inform clinical & management decisionmaking at the point of care.

The mainstay of RACFs – care workers – are burdened by enormous responsibility and limited training. Technology offers a multiplier effect on their effectiveness and efficiency. Embracing it is not only smart, but also humane. Now that’s a silver lining!