The introduction of EHRs has further intensified the need for technology expertise in ASCs and made server up time a crucial factor in ASC operation.
Typically ASCs do not have internal expertise relative to servers and IT. This is not surprising as their knowledge and focus is in patient care. So how can an ASC navigate the complex world of servers and IT support? It’s easy with a hosted software application. But how do you know if a hosted application is right for you?
Hosted applications are an essential part of daily life. E-mail, online banking and even smartphones use hosted applications. These allow users to access and manage large amounts of data virtually anytime and anyplace. This technology can also be applied to an ASC and offers great benefits to those taking advantage of it, including:
- Predictable costs – Instead of spending lots of money on a server, installation, support and upgrades, centers can pay set low monthly fees for a hosted application
- Data growth – As your center grows, more server space is needed for data storage. In this circumstance, a hosted solution shines by giving you (in many cases) unlimited room for storage and growth
- Reliability and compliance – A hosted application ensures that your server is secure and backed up off site and that your data is encrypted
- Convenience and access – The client server model requires you to have servers on site and to be there to access your management and clinical application. With a hosted solution, your data is available anywhere and anytime. Also, system upgrades are normally included and completed for you
As vital as those points are, cost is often a prominent consideration. Will a hosted application be more cost-effective than a client server solution? Quite often the answer is yes. A hosted application will reduce hardware costs and ongoing IT costs. You can also save time and labor as back-ups will no longer be performed by your staff. Also, the need to replace your server every three or four years is eliminated. A hosted solution is affordable to start and helps keep long-term costs contained. Combining that with added security, scalability and reliability makes turning to a hosted application a smart move for today’s ASCs.
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