Analysing cloud computing and the healthcare industry

Cloud computing has touched many industries and is increasingly being adopted in many ways, from easily accessible data storage to business application solutions and reduction in hardware investment. The healthcare industry is no exception: here we outline some of the ways in which cloud computing can be of benefit in the future.

1. The secure storage of patient records

Doctors and medical staff are bound by oaths, especially with regards to patient confidentiality. Having secure cloud storage is therefore paramount.

The first generation of cloud computing had security issues, however now that these have been ironed out, the cloud is more secure than ever. In the US, hospitals must adhere to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

2. Reducing the cost of data storage

Utilising the cloud can save the healthcare service a lot of money. Subscriptions can equate to approximately a 90% saving on hardware investments, especially when …