In this post, we will share how Sirma uses digital tools and platforms to advance healthcare and sustainability in medicine. Stanislav Tahushev, Investor Relations Director, talks about Sirma Group Holding’s ESG strategic initiatives in the field of digital healthcare.
Technology and digitalization have significantly contributed to the advancement of healthcare. This progress has resulted in increased inclusivity, especially for patients in remote locations. It has also led to decreased resource utilisation and reduced the number of medical specialists required. As a result, there has been a significant improvement in patient outcomes. Many of the challenges that the healthcare sector has faced over the last few decades are starting to disappear thanks to IT. Sirma develops healthcare IT products and services that contribute to positive global developments. While healthcare and patients certainly benefit from these solutions, they are not the only ones who gain from this technological revolution. These IT products and services significantly impact the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda.
Environmental Impact
Sirma’s healthcare and telemedical IT solutions improve patient health and reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional healthcare practices. By enabling remote consultations, patient monitoring, and diagnostics, patients can access healthcare services without unnecessary travel, thus reducing transportation-related environmental impact.
Sirma’s digital health records and cloud-based solutions also minimise the need for paper-based documentation, data processing, and storage, reducing deforestation and energy consumption associated with physical record-keeping and in-house data centres. Furthermore, Sirma’s solutions promote sustainable practices within healthcare facilities by streamlining processes and optimizing resource utilization, leading to energy efficiency and aligning with ESG principles that prioritize environmental conservation and responsible resource management.
Social Impact
Digital healthcare significantly impacts patients’ health, but it also offers subtle social benefits. Sirma’s telemedical IT solutions are crucial in addressing the social challenges associated with healthcare accessibility and inclusivity. Patients living in underserved or remote areas can access quality medical care through remote consultations and health monitoring. This eliminates the need to travel long distances and helps bridge the healthcare gap, promoting inclusivity and social equity.
In addition, Sirma’s telemedical solutions facilitate better patient engagement and education. Healthcare providers can interact with patients more effectively through Sirma’s platforms, providing them with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their health. This empowers patients and aligns with the social dimension of ESG by fostering a more informed and engaged community.
Governance and Data Security
Digital health has brought significant benefits to society but also presents a notable threat. The reason is that digital healthcare solutions collect and process vast amounts of patient data. Sirma’s telemedical IT solutions prioritize strong governance and data security to ensure patient information is confidential and private. These platforms comply with rigorous standards and regulations, which helps to prevent unauthorized access and breaches of sensitive health data.
Sirma also contributes to the ESG governance pillar by implementing robust cybersecurity measures. This safeguards patient information and promotes ethical, social, and governance best practices by preventing unauthorised access or breaches.
Integrating telemedical solutions can help enhance healthcare governance by improving the efficiency and transparency of healthcare systems. Real-time monitoring and data analytics enable better decision-making, resource allocation, and policy development, ultimately contributing to more effective healthcare governance.
Many businesses evaluate their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. Sirma is one such business that does so. However, with its IT products and services, Sirma goes beyond evaluation and helps its clients improve their ESG rating. Sirma’s telemedical IT solutions have multiple benefits in advancing the ESG agenda.
The environmental benefits of reducing travel and paper usage, along with the social impact of improving healthcare accessibility, contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive society. Furthermore, the governance and data security focus aligns with responsible and transparent business practices. As the healthcare industry continues to transform, innovative solutions like those provided by Sirma play a critical role in building a healthier, fairer, and more environmentally conscious future.