Saint Joseph Health System (SJHS) has been named one of the nation’s Most Wired health systems for its Mishawaka and Plymouth Medical Centers, according to the 2016 Most Wired Survey results released by the American Hospital Association’s Health Forum.
SJHS has been recognized as Most Wired for six consecutive years. Health systems must meet a set of rigorous standards to be named.
“The journey to provide our community with the latest health care technology is never ending,” said Albert Gutierrez, chief executive officer, SJHS. “We commit unmatched resources to set the standard for care, providing our patients with the most talented individuals with the most innovative tools. We are honored to be recognized as Most Wired for the sixth year and will continue to invest in technologies and Michiana.”
The 18th annual Health Care’s Most Wired Survey revealed that technology is improving the efficiency of care delivery and creating a new dynamic in patient interactions. The survey noted that Most Wired hospitals are using tele-health to fill gaps in care; provide services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and expand access to medical specialists. This year’s results show:
- Stroke care is the most rapid growth area for tele-health services, up 38 percent from 2015, as evidence-based studies emphasize the time urgency of stroke.
- More than 25 percent of hospitals use Internet-enabled monitoring devices for chronic disease management of congestive heart failure, diabetes and heart disease.
“Hospitals are breaking-out of their traditional four walls and providing care where and when patients need it,” said Rick Pollack, president and CEO of the AHA. “These Most Wired hospitals exemplify this transformation by harnessing technology, engaging patients and offering services remotely. And, removing policy and other barriers to tele-health will allow even faster adoption of these amazing technologies.”
Health Care’s Most Wired Survey, conducted between Jan. 15 and March 15, 2016, is published annually by Health & Hospitals Network. Respondents completed 680 surveys, representing more than 34 percent of all U.S. Hospitals.
