Technology infrastructure is one of the biggest challenges for health systems as they grow. This is especially true when acquiring new hospitals.
Ann Arbor-based Michigan Medicine currently has three versions of Epic EHR after mergers and acquisitions in recent years and unifying them is a big priority in the coming months, said Eric Strucko, PhD, CFO of Michigan Medicine during an interview with the “Becker’s Healthcare Podcast.”
“We’re investing to consolidate into a single version and integrate new technologies to extend Michigan Medicine’s reach to more patients in the state and bring easier access to tertiary, quaternary care for Michiganders,” said Mr. Strucko.
Like many other health systems, Michigan Medicine faces tough reimbursement challenges and looming Medicaid cuts. But that isn’t stopping growth. Mr. Strucko said the health system aims to add patient volume by expanding access to care, growing facilities, partnering with other community providers and additional mergers. Technology is a critical component of the growth plan as well.
“With our work consolidating into a single version of Epic, we want to open up new capabilities in telehealth, and everybody is talking about artificial intelligence,” he said. “We certainly see a place for AI in our business process and functions, as well as our clinical [space] to facilitate better care, more accurate diagnoses and manage the workload on our care providers. As we will continue to invest in brick and mortar, we will look to affiliate with other existing providers, and we will try to extend our reach through technology.”
The digital technology landscape is a noisy one with established giants and scrappy startups all vying to create the best tools and solutions for health system partners today. Mr. Strucko said Michigan Medicine has a “steady determination” and is willing to take calculated risks without hesitation.
“We have a quiet confidence that we know we provide excellent care and we will make good returns on our investments, whether tangible financial returns or returns measured in mission accomplished. This organization is purposeful and is not hesitant to invest the way we’re doing if we think it is for the greater good financially and for patient care, research and education,” he said.
