Mar 13, 2025
|
4
min read
In recent years, digital health technology has made significant strides, with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) becoming a central part of healthcare systems across the U.S. However, despite widespread adoption, the promise of digital health is still far from being fully realized. The two main barriers to progress: poor interoperability and limited access to telehealth, especially in rural areas.
The State of EHR Adoption and Interoperability
70% of U.S. providers use EHRs: A substantial number of healthcare providers have adopted EHRs as part of their shift to digital health systems. These systems store patient information, making it easier for healthcare providers to access and manage medical records.
40% of providers share data seamlessly: Despite widespread EHR adoption, only 40% of healthcare providers are able to share data across systems seamlessly. This fragmented data exchange leads to inefficiencies, errors, and delays in patient care.
$30 billion lost annually: Poor interoperability is costing the healthcare system approximately $30 billion each year. This figure is driven by the inefficiencies caused by disconnected systems, delayed treatments, and redundant procedures that could be avoided with a more connected network.
The Impact of Medicare Cuts on Rural Healthcare
In addition to interoperability challenges, the looming Medicare cuts set for March 31, 2025, are poised to significantly affect rural healthcare providers. Rural healthcare systems are already under-resourced, and these cuts will make it even harder for them to access digital health tools like telehealth, which could otherwise help bridge the care gap.
Rural providers are most affected: Rural healthcare facilities often lack the infrastructure, resources, and support systems available in urban centers. With reduced funding, many rural providers may struggle to stay operational, further deepening the divide between rural and urban healthcare.
Telehealth could be the solution: While telehealth offers a powerful way to provide healthcare remotely, the cuts could make it harder for rural providers to adopt or maintain these services. In a world where digital health could level the playing field, financial barriers are holding rural providers back.
The Path Forward: Breaking Down Barriers
To overcome these challenges, healthcare systems must focus on:
Improving interoperability: The ability to seamlessly share data between healthcare providers is crucial to improving care coordination, reducing costs, and enhancing patient outcomes.
Investing in rural healthcare: Policymakers and healthcare organizations must prioritize equitable access to telehealth and digital health tools, especially for rural providers who face the greatest barriers to adoption.
Leveraging technology effectively: Utilizing digital health solutions, including telehealth, can help providers manage care more effectively and reduce costs, especially in underserved areas.
Let Mobius Healthcare Solutions Help
The future of healthcare hinges on overcoming these obstacles. At Mobius Healthcare Solutions, we specialize in helping healthcare organizations improve interoperability, adopt telehealth, and navigate the complexities of digital health transformation.
If your organization is struggling with interoperability challenges or you’re looking for ways to improve telehealth access, reach out to Mobius Healthcare Solutions for a consultation. Let’s work together to create a more connected, efficient, and equitable healthcare system.
Contact Mobius Healthcare Solutions today to schedule your consultation.
