As technology advances at a breakneck pace, it’s crucial for healthcare institutions to keep up. Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with a panel of technical leaders from prominent healthcare organizations about what Health IT teams will look like by 2030. The discussion was both illuminating and thought-provoking, pointing to a future shaped by data science, cybersecurity challenges, and rapid technological innovation. In this article, I want to share my field notes in the format of insightful conclusions, which can already be safely used as a basis for building a long-term strategy for success. So, what are the experts predicting?
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The Growing Importance of Data Science
“Data is the new oil,” remarked Clive Humby, reflecting the sentiment of our panelists that data science will dominate discussions in healthcare IT. Data analysis skills will not be just a ‘nice-to-have’; they will be essential. From predictive modeling for patient outcomes to optimizing hospital workflows, data science will be a critical skillset in the tech teams of the future.
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Facing the Cybersecurity Hurdles
In a world that’s becoming increasingly interconnected, cybersecurity will get tougher. As Warren Buffett wisely said, “Cybersecurity risks are uncharted territory.” In 2023, the healthcare sector was the most targeted industry, accounting for 809 compromises, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center. Increased online exposure means potential breaches, and often the weakest link is the supplier. Trusted supplier relationships are key, and IT teams need to focus on continuously improving their cybersecurity protocols.
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Evolving Team Dynamics in Health IT
When it comes to the actual team, it will predominantly consist of hardcore tech people. As the amount of data being generated and stored increases, there will be a growing need for complex and huge storage facilities. Application experts will still be essential, especially since software like Epic is not going away anytime soon. Applications will only increase, and integration skills will be critical for those who remain on the team.
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The Impact of Automation on Labor
Automation will significantly impact labor in healthcare IT. Our panel predicts that in the next decade, 15%-20% less labor will be needed due to advancements in automation. Technologies like GenAI will help optimize the size of IT departments, allowing them to focus on high-value projects. “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things,” said Peter Drucker, and automation allows for both in the healthcare IT space.
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Leadership of Tomorrow
Leadership in 2030’s IT teams will consist of world-renowned experts in technologies that don’t even exist yet. They will be heavy data experts who not only understand technology but also the flow of money and data and the impact of information on workflow. “Lead, follow, or get out of the way,” noted Thomas Paine. This aptly captures the essence of what future IT leadership in healthcare will be about.
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Transitioning to Hybrid Environments
On-prem IT is predicted to be completely gone by 2030. Teams will need people who can effectively manage IT in hybrid environments, juggling both cloud and on-site solutions. The most successful IT automation tools will be those that offer environment automation, such as virtual servers, and provide in-app automation rather than relying on third-party services.
Conclusion
The future of hospital IT is a landscape of rapid changes and equally swift adaptation. From the increasing importance of data science and cybersecurity to a shift in labor due to automation, healthcare organizations need to prepare for these inevitable changes. Sheryl Sandberg of Facebook wisely remarked, “What you plan, you can measure; what you measure, you can improve.”
As we look to the future of technology in healthcare, partnering with experienced consultants like us at Sphere Partners is key. We specialize in healthcare technology and offer the expertise to co-build and co-develop bespoke systems and digital solutions with innovative hospital partners. Let’s innovate and build the future of healthcare IT together. Reach out to us to take the first step toward making the future a reality.
