“Learning and innovation go hand in hand. The arrogance of success
is to think that what you did yesterday will be sufficient for tomorrow.” –
William Pollard
This quote by American physicist and writer William Pollard is a good reminder to focus on active, life-long learning as things are changing quickly, especially in the world of healthcare and technology. Learning is the foundation of creating and being open to innovation. Keeping your knowledge up to date is a key element in keeping up with technology.
Incorporating IT into all areas of healthcare requires healthcare staff to consistently develop new competencies and to broaden their knowledge. A “learning mindset” is essential in implementing digital health solutions.
“Despite the billions invested in healthcare technology each year, actual tech adoption in hospitals and health systems has been disappointingly low: American healthcare professionals implement artificial intelligence and telehealth solutions, for example, at significantly lower rates than the global average, per a recent survey.”
Indeed, according to Linda C. Lombardi, PhD, chief strategy officer and chief experience officer at NYC Health + Hospitals, Bellevue, “adopting a continuous learning mindset is and will continue to be needed to adjust to the changing healthcare landscape. Staff will need to possess and continually refine competencies in IT in order to contribute and compete… In short, the biggest challenge facing healthcare will be in embracing the embeddedness of IT in all facets of the health care and the delivery system.”
But learning doesn’t stop with healthcare professionals being up-to-date. To improve patient experience and reduce costs through telehealth and self-monitoring, patients need to be willing to learn how to use smart technologies like wearables.
The healthcare industry is changing with lightning speed. The focus has changed from cure to prevention, actively involving patients. Connectivity and interoperability are more important than ever before.
Artificial intelligence (AI) shakes up the healthcare industry and the benefits of using AI in healthcare are well-documented. So, does AI replace life-long learning?
Actually, the roles of healthcare professionals and providers start changing. Digitalization and the speed of technology requires new medical skills that need to be adjusted. AI and care management will be essential. The biggest challenge facing healthcare will be in embracing the impact of IT.
This also affects medical education. Medical education needs “focus on knowledge capture rather than knowledge retention; collaboration with and management of AI algorithms; and a better understanding of probabilities and how to apply them in clinical decision-making.”
It’s an exciting time to be in healthcare with endless opportunities for those advancing innovation. As the quote says: “Learning and innovation go hand in hand.”
