In this episode of Talking HealthTech, host Peter Birch sits down with Vikram Palit, CEO and Founder of ConsultMed. Vikram discusses his background as a paediatrician and his journey into technology, as well as the founding and purpose of ConsultMed. The conversation explores the challenges of paper-based referrals and documents in healthcare, and how ConsultMed aims to digitise and streamline the referral process.

Key Takeaways:

• Digital transformation in healthcare is no longer optional; it's a strategic necessity to improve efficiency and data security.
• ConsultMed integrates digital referrals and workflow automation, aiming to replace antiquated paper-based systems.
• AI technologies like Optical Character Recognition (OCR) significantly streamline the referral process by enabling direct-to-EMR capabilities.
• Digital referrals offer improved speed and traceability, bolstering accountability and reducing the risk of data mismanagement.
• Advanced AI can assist in document summarisation, alleviating the administrative burden on healthcare professionals.
• Compliance with data security and privacy regulations is paramount when implementing digital and AI-based systems.
• Overcoming challenges in digital transformation requires an overhaul of ingrained practices and strong buy-in from healthcare professionals.
• Integration of AI and digital referrals with existing EMR systems is a focal point for bfuture developments.
• Workforce implications, such as reducing burnout, are significant benefits of adopting automated systems.
• As healthcare needs grow, the role of digital and AI technologies will become increasingly integral in delivering efficient and high-quality care.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Intro

[00:14] - Meet Vikram

[00:38] - ConsultMed Intro

[01:26] - Paperwork Woes

[03:06] - Current Flow

[03:54] - Fax Issues

[05:53] - Reception Role

[06:17] - Data Entry

[08:12] - AI Cases

[13:35] - Data Security

[15:32] - Future Path

[16:40] - New Partners

[17:47] - Wrap Up

Check out the episode and full show notes on the Talking HealthTech website.

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