BYOD: "Bring Your Own Device" 

 Clinicians are beginning to realize the very real benefits of BYOD programs, including reduced training burden, greater productivity, enhanced professional satisfaction and quick, effective decision-making. With faster access to email, files and test results, providers spend less time on clunky computer systems and more time with their patients.

At the same time, health systems are embracing BYOD because it promises improved workflow, cost savings, better compliance with provisions of healthcare legislation such as the U.S. Affordable Care Act and easier recruitment of top-notch healthcare providers. We see this in the list of five key factors driving early adoption of BYOD innovations:

Indeed, there are numerous applications for BYOD in the healthcare workplace.

• Smart-device ultrasound connects an off-the-shelf compatible smart device, a mobile application, advanced ultrasound transducer technology, integrated IT and support services to help healthcare providers take care where it's needed. Philips' recently introduced Lumify is an example of smart-device ultrasound.
• Electronic health records (EHRs) are electronic records of patient health, including demographics, progress notes, problems, medications, vital signs, medical history, immunizations, lab data and radiology reports. When available via a mobile device, EHRs can streamline clinician workflow.
• PDRs and other clinical reference tools are mobile apps that allow clinicians to access information such as prescribing facts for thousands of drugs, the most recent biomedical research and other point-of-care reference support.

Of course, digital health solutions and BYOD platforms also present unique challenges. These include issues related to data security, connectivity, IT user support and patient privacy concerns. As a leader in driving innovative solutions that protect both patients and providers, Philips is actively working to make sure our mobile solutions are secure, supported and private.

It's already clear BYOD can facilitate better connections between healthcare systems, providers and patients across the care continuum. As more healthcare organizations develop policies and programs that support BYOD, it will be exciting to see how continued innovation in mobile products and services help yield better patient care and outcomes.