Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Strategies for Migration Success

Cloud computing has become a game-changer across industries, and healthcare is no exception. But while the shift promises efficiency, security, and innovation, cloud migration also comes with challenges. For healthcare providers, the stakes are higher—migrating to the cloud involves not just technology but compliance, patient data security, and operational continuity.

This guide explores how cloud computing in healthcare delivers success and shares three foolproof strategies to ensure a smooth, successful migration.

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The Importance of Migrating to the Cloud

Across all industries, the migration to the cloud is often as much a business decision as it is one driven by a CIO. A move to the cloud means that an organization can shift some of its time and resources away from maintaining legacy, on-premises storage and toward initiatives that drive operations as a whole, such as implementing new applications or finding new process efficiencies.

The Value of Cloud Computing in Healthcare (For the Provider)

In healthcare, moving to the cloud isn’t just about upgrading infrastructure; it’s about unlocking new ways to deliver better care.

• Operational Efficiency: The cloud allows organizations to shift resources away from maintaining aging systems and focus on innovations like telehealth or AI-driven diagnostics. Scalability means you pay only for the resources you use, whether your needs grow or shrink.
• Improved Patient Outcomes: Cloud platforms simplify data sharing between providers, enabling seamless patient care across clinics, hospitals, and specialists.
• Enhanced Security and Compliance: Leading cloud providers invest heavily in meeting stringent healthcare regulations like HIPAA and HITRUST, often surpassing the capabilities of in-house systems.

Additionally, by switching to the cloud, providers can take advantage of the scalability that cloud computing introduces along with the flexibility of only having to pay for the services your operations actually use.

Resource: Looking to lower your cloud migration costs? Find out how FNTS can help. 

How Patients Benefit from Switching to the Cloud

While organizations are able to take advantage of the security and HIPAA compliance expertise of a cloud services provider, patients can also benefit from a cloud migration because it enables providers to more easily share, track, store, and analyze personal data. 

Due to the high uptimes and cutting-edge infrastructure that cloud providers are able to provide, data availability can be seamless across a patient’s entire healthcare journey, from application to application and from doctor to tablet.

3 Steps to Prepare for a Successful Cloud Migration

The process of migrating from an on-premises environment to the cloud can be complex, but with the right help and preparation, the move can be a turning point for your business. To help make it a reality, here are three key strategies your organization should explore before getting started.

1. Select the right partner
2. Get clinician input
3. Communicate regularly
   
   

1. Select the Right Partner

Selecting the right cloud partner is the foundation of any successful migration. This isn’t just about picking a big-name provider; it’s about finding a partner who truly understands the nuances of healthcare.

Does the provider have experience navigating HIPAA and HITRUST compliance? Can they handle sensitive patient data while integrating with your existing systems? These questions are critical. Beyond technical fit, ensure their service-level agreements (SLAs) align with your operational demands. Uptime and support are non-negotiables when patient care is on the line.

2. Get Clinician Input 

Clinicians are on the front lines of patient care, interacting directly with tools and systems every day. Their insights into workflow pain points and unmet needs can shape your migration’s priorities.

Engage them early by asking what’s missing in the current system and what they need to succeed. Then, as you introduce new tools, provide tailored training that fits their schedules. The more you align the technology with their workflows, the more likely they’ll embrace the change.

3. Communicate Regularly

Cloud migrations involve many moving parts—and many stakeholders. To keep everything on track, clear and frequent communication is essential. Start by setting expectations. What are the migration’s goals, timelines, and potential challenges? Share these details openly with everyone, from IT staff to leadership and clinicians.

As the project progresses, provide regular updates on milestones, risks, and adjustments. When the migration nears completion, focus on communication that builds excitement, like training schedules or launch countdowns.

Taking the Next Step with Your Cloud Migration

The decision to move to the cloud may benefit the bottom line and healthcare organizations will also improve operations and their patients’ experiences. However, the migration is still complex. Many organizations choose to work with experienced managed service providers who bring the expertise, tools, and industry knowledge to make migrations successful.

To learn more about how cloud migration can benefit your business and what a managed services provider can offer, reach out to the team at FNTS here.