There's no doubt that the healthcare industry faces some unique challenges. With patient privacy and security at the forefront of their concerns, healthcare professionals need secure and efficient ways to access patient data. They also require the ability to work on patient data remotely, which is crucial given that many healthcare workers are geographically dispersed. In this blog, we'll explore why Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is a game-changer for the healthcare industry, and discuss how to get started.
What is Azure Virtual Desktop?
AVD is a desktop and application virtualization service that runs on Microsoft Azure. This platform enables users to access virtual desktops and applications from almost any device, regardless of the operating system. Essentially, AVD allows you to create an environment where your users can access all their applications and data remotely, from anywhere in the world.
How can this benefit the healthcare industry?
The utilisation of AVD in the healthcare industry offers numerous benefits, including:
- Secure remote & hybrid work: AVD facilitates a seamless transition into remote and hybrid work environments. It enables healthcare professionals to access their work desktops, applications, and data from anywhere, at any time, on any device. This flexibility not only ensures continuity of patient care but also adheres to the stringent security measures necessary in the healthcare industry. Patient data remains secure as it's stored in Microsoft's highly secure data centres and not on individual devices, significantly reducing the risk of breaches.
- Decreased expenditure: with AVD, healthcare organisations can make significant savings. The pay-as-you-go model means you only pay for what you use, eliminating the need for expensive hardware investments or maintenance costs. Furthermore, because AVD is scalable, organisations can quickly adjust resources according to their needs, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
- Strengthened cyber security: healthcare data is highly sensitive, making robust cyber security paramount. AVD provides enhanced security features, including multi-factor authentication, threat intelligence, and data encryption, to protect against cyber threats. This comprehensive security approach ensures patient data's integrity and confidentiality, contributing to trust and compliance with regulations such as GDPR.
- Scalability: healthcare demands can fluctuate dramatically, requiring flexible IT solutions. With AVD's scalability, healthcare organisations can easily scale up or down their IT resources in response to changing needs. Whether it's accommodating for a surge in patient numbers during a health crisis or scaling back in quieter periods, AVD allows for agile adjustments, ensuring optimal performance at all times.
How to get started
Partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) can take the stress out of implementing and managing AVD. They'll handle the technical side of things, allowing you to focus on providing exceptional care to your patients. Benefits include:
- Expert implementation: setting up AVD requires a deep understanding of your organisation's IT infrastructure and the specific needs of the healthcare industry. MSPs bring a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring a smooth and efficient implementation process. They'll handle everything from configuring the virtual desktops to training your staff on how to use them.
- Ongoing management: once AVD is up and running, MSPs offer continuous support to ensure everything operates seamlessly. They'll monitor the system, perform regular updates, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. This means your team can focus on what they do best - providing top-notch medical care.
- Enhanced security: healthcare data is extremely sensitive, making strong cyber security essential. MSPs understand the intricacies of AVD's security features and can optimise them to protect your data. They'll also keep an eye out for any potential threats and take swift action if necessary.
As an experienced Microsoft partner with an AVD Advanced Specialisation, we can help ensure your business achieves the best ROI from your AVD investment. To find out more, contact us today.