Computers in the Workplace

 

For this discussion, we were asked to look into how computers play a role in a certain industry. The industry I decided to look into is healthcare. I chose this because of a previous role I had while on active duty, I was responsible for ensuring the members of my unit were mentally and physically fit to carry a weapon. With this came a ton of medical information training like The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and Privacy Act training. Which led to more programs and information granted.

Utilizing technology is crucial in the healthcare industry. If you are across the country and have to go to the hospital, the personnel there will be able to access your records. Additionally, with technology advancing throughout the world, there is more that can be done with it. When I was recently at the hospital, they now have x-ray machines that are portable and can be moved into rooms for the patient to be scanned. Saving time and making it easier on the patient. With the advancement of technology, means that personnel must have a basic level of IT knowledge. But why is this? In the medical field, if a computer starts having issues when you are pulling records, you need to have some basic troubleshooting to fix this issue. Because in the field, there are times when every second counts. From an article by Stepankova & Engova, “It is useful to complement the introduction of computer literacy as a qualification concept by a standardized accreditation of ICT skills. Solid level of computer literacy creates a reliable and efficient background for everyday activities of healthcare professionals, enables the application of further domain-specific training modules and prepares suitable environments for the introduction and acceptance of new technologies such as electronic health records and electronic transfer of prescriptions by positively transforming the attitudes of users towards them” (2006). This article discusses how having a basic IT knowledge could become a qualification when being hired.

With the already growing field of IT, this will change how the medical field operates. There will be easier procedures and enhanced appointments for patients. During the pandemic, there was a big push for online virtual appointments. Which saves time for the patients and even money on travel expenses. I believe hardware and networking will grow in a stronger way and become even more reliable.  Which will provide a faster communication system for providers and patients.

Reference:

Stepankova, O., & Engova, D. (2006) Professional competence and computer literacy in e-age, focus on healthcare. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16685340/#:~:text=Solid%20level%20of%20computer%20literacy,technologies%20such%20as%20electronic%20healthLinks to an external site.