What is the primary role of technology in OSF's healthcare delivery?

The primary role of technology in OSF's healthcare delivery is centered around improving patient satisfaction, safety, and operational efficiency. This encompasses a broad range of technological applications designed to enhance the overall patient experience and health outcomes. For instance, advanced electronic health records (EHR) systems facilitate better data sharing among healthcare providers, enabling more coordinated care and minimizing the risk of errors. Telehealth solutions allow patients greater access to care, especially in remote areas, thereby improving convenience and satisfaction.

Moreover, technology plays a key role in ensuring patient safety through tools like clinical decision support systems that help clinicians make informed decisions based on real-time data and diagnostics. On the operational side, employing technology streamlines various processes, reduces wait times, and optimizes resource allocation, all contributing to a more efficient healthcare delivery system.

While reducing costs and increasing staff efficiency is an important aspect of healthcare operations, the broader focus on improving key elements like patient satisfaction and safety through technology represents the core mission of organizations like OSF. Other options, such as providing entertainment for patients or merely automating clerical tasks, are supportive elements but do not capture the comprehensive impact of technology in enhancing healthcare delivery.