Digitalisierung in der Praxis – Mit digitalen Lösungen die Patientenversorgung verbessern
Für diesen Beitrag ware ich zu Gast, bei unserem Kunden Dr. Phillip Hannah, in der modernen orthopädischen Praxis in Schleswig-Holstein. Zwischen weißen Wänden, durchdachtem Praxisdesign und einem erstaunlich papierarmen Arbeitsalltag haben wir mit ihm über ein Thema gesprochen, das viele Praxen aktuell bewegt – die Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen.
What does a future-oriented medical practice look like today? Which digital tools truly simplify everyday life, and where are the stumbling blocks? In our interview, Dr. Hannah provides insights into the practice behind the practice – and shows how technology helps increase efficiency and provide better patient care.
“Nothing works without IT these days,” says Dr. Hannah as he leads us through his practice. Electronic patient records, digital prescriptions, cloud-based data structures – all of these have long been part of his daily routine. It’s not about technology for technology’s sake, but rather about concrete benefits for the team and the patients.
Between fax and the future: Where does healthcare stand today?
When asked how he assesses digitalization in healthcare, Dr. Hannah remains honest: “Germany is more in the middle of the pack compared internationally.” The path to modern practice IT is paved with bureaucracy, data protection requirements, and training costs. Nevertheless, he sees a clear direction: “The benefits are simply too great to ignore.”
Digital tools in everyday life: From e-prescriptions to eAU
Dr. Hannah has already established many digital processes in his practice. He finds the e-prescription and the electronic certificate of incapacity for work particularly helpful. The KIM service, which enables secure communication with other physicians, has also largely replaced the fax machine. “Our entire patient organization runs on our practice software – it’s the digital backbone of our business.”
Another important topic is the electronic patient record (ePA). In the future, this could centrally store and make all relevant information accessible – naturally on a voluntary basis and subject to strict data protection. “The better we know the patient’s medical history, the more targeted our treatment can be,” he explains.
Data protection? A central issue
Security is crucial, especially when it comes to sensitive health data. Data protection is a top priority in Dr. Hannah’s practice: A specialized IT service provider ensures regular audits, and the entire team is trained in the secure use of digital systems. “With the right partners and a clear strategy, patient data can be well protected.”
More efficiency, better care
The benefits of digitalization are evident in many areas. Digital appointment scheduling saves time, queries can be answered more quickly, and direct access to patient records makes medical care significantly more personalized. Dr. Hannah also sees tools like health apps as a positive development: “They promote personal responsibility – and help us better support our patients.”
Cloud instead of CD
Another game-changer for him is the cloud-based infrastructure. The cloud offers advantages, especially when exchanging data with radiology departments or hospitals – for example, through QR codes that make MRI or CT scan results directly accessible. “Solutions like these save time, paper, and stress.”
No team, no transformation
But digitalization only works if the team gets on board. That’s why Dr. Hannah involves his employees from the very beginning. “We conduct training sessions, regularly discuss new processes—and listen when things get stuck.” The result? High levels of acceptance and a clearly noticeable increase in efficiency.
Numbers, data, vision
Data analysis tools and dashboards help him strategically manage his practice: Capacity utilization, wait times, demand for specific services – all of this is continuously recorded and evaluated. “This transparency makes it easier to make the right decisions in a timely manner.”
Digitalization as an investment
Of course, introducing new systems initially costs time and money. But Dr. Hannah is convinced: “The initial investment is worthwhile—for the practice, but especially for the patients.” Since the coronavirus pandemic, it has become clear how important digital tools are in healthcare.
Good partners are crucial
Finally, Dr. Hannah emphasizes the role of external IT partners. “We need people who know how a practice works—and who don’t just hand us a system.” With the right support, digitalization can be implemented safely and effectively.
Conclusion:
Digitalization isn’t an end in itself, but a real opportunity – if approached correctly. A visit to Dr. Hannah demonstrates how modern technology is being integrated into everyday practice. Between data security, cloud computing, and patient focus, a picture emerges of how medical practices can function in the future: more efficient, more transparent, and more humane.