AMA creates 'digital health playbook' for doctors

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Opening the digital door to the NHS

The American Medical Association has created a “digital health playbook” to help doctors integrate the technology into their practice.

The AMA’s Digital Health Implementation Playbook guides members through key steps and provides best practice advice and resources.

According to the AMA the playbook can be used to implement any digital health solution while another six steps focus on a specific solution.

It is based on input and lessons from more than 80 doctors, care team members and digital health thought leaders across the US.

It has also been recognised by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology.

The AMA’s guide is designed to work with the organisation’s other tools, such as modules covering electronic health records.

It also contains important tips to help doctors make persuasive cases to incorporate digital health technology into their practice.

Doctors are advised to clearly define resources needed, including funding, additional staff, political support and official approval.

They should estimate the value the technology will contribute to the organisation, and align implementation with organisational objectives.

This will help justify why the project should be treated as a priority, according to the playbook.

Doctors should also research coding and development available for the chosen solution and compile all necessary information in a proposal to key decision makers.

The playbook also sets out how to draw up contracts with vendors, to protect both parties.

Negotiated terms such as financial investment, customer support, additional services, upgrade schedules and success metrics should be included in the contract.

There should also be clear and measurable definitions of success, and an outlined plan of how to scale the project, and any relevant contingency plans.

The AMA is encouraging doctors to show leadership in digital health and has also published other guides, covering topics such as how to succeed with remote patient monitoring.