Hospitals and health systems are increasingly acquiring urgent care centers to improve their market positions and meet the demand for convenient care, spurred by financial pressures and competition from payer-owned providers and retail clinics. With the urgent care market expected to reach $46.7 billion by 2024, major health systems like UPMC, Novant Health, and Ardent Health are making significant investments to integrate these services with their existing offerings. Such acquisitions aim to provide accessible, same-day care alternatives for patients seeking treatment for non-life-threatening conditions, thereby enhancing overall healthcare accessibility and efficiency.

Hospitals Race to Acquire Urgent Care Centers Amid Rising Demand Becker's Hospital Review

A recent Consumer Reports survey reveals that many consumers are unaware of the risks linked to Internet of Things (IoT) devices, particularly the necessity for ongoing software support. A substantial percentage of users, including 55% of smart TV owners and 46% of smartphone owners, mistakenly believe their devices will remain functional even after official support ends, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities and wasted investments. The findings emphasize the need for improved communication from manufacturers regarding product lifespan and support, prompting advocacy groups to urge the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to mandate clearer disclosures about the duration of device support.

Consumers Ignorant of IoT Risks, Urged to Demand Software Support Transparency Ars Technica

Health Information Management (HIM) is integral to the safeguarding of patient data and compliance with HIPAA regulations at Cleveland Clinic. Nicholas Judd, senior director of HIM, emphasizes its role in enhancing hospital operations and allowing providers to concentrate on care delivery, while Sharon Slivochka, HIM director, focuses on managing patient record access and ensuring electronic health record integrity. Advances in technology are reshaping the HIM Physician Advisory role, as illustrated by Dr. Allison Weathers’ work in integrating informatics expertise to optimize workflows. By prioritizing collaboration with healthcare providers, the HIM team seeks to address challenges, reduce administrative work, and continuously update practices to align with evolving regulations.

Cleveland Clinic's HIM Team Enhances Patient Data Privacy and Care Efficiency Cleveland Clinic

In a LinkedIn article, Helen Lu discusses the critical role of data governance in healthcare organizations implementing artificial AI. Lu, Clinical Director of Informatics & Analytics at John Muir Health, believes that effective management of AI assets requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration among clinical, technical, and administrative teams. She also addresses the challenges health systems face in integrating AI tools, such as aligning them with existing workflows and obtaining buy-in from stakeholders. Ultimately, Lu advocates for comprehensive strategies that encompass policy development, staff training, and continuous evaluation to successfully manage AI assets in healthcare settings.

Navigating AI Governance: Balancing Opportunities and Challenges in Healthcare LinkedIn