The AI Revolution Series – Using AI in Home Health and Home Care Can Improve Quality of Care
AI can boost quality of care in the home health and home care industries
THE VBP Blog
May 9, 2024 – Artificial Intelligence (AI) is dramatically reshaping the landscape of home health and home care. There is a wealth of benefits AI provides that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of care provided to consumers in their own homes.
In our last blog, we gave an overview of how AI can be used specifically in the home health and home care industries. In this blog, the fourth in our series, we will look at the overall benefits of using AI in the home health and home care sectors. Specifically, we will explore how AI-driven technologies are impacting the industry and the implications of these advancements for consumers. As advocates, we are excited by the benefits of more personalized care plans and increased independence for those receiving services at home. To learn more about our advocate’s perspective, check out our full write-up at the end of the blog to hear more of our thoughts!
AI Taking Personal Care Plans and Proactiveness to the Next Level
The integration of AI into home care and home health care brings many benefits. The first is the creation of more personalized care plans.
AI’s capacity for data analysis enables a level of personalization that was not possible before in traditional care settings. By analyzing data in real-time, AI can tailor care plans to the individual’s specific needs, adjusting recommendations based on their progress and responses. For example, AI can tailor healthcare services to individual needs by analyzing data from a patient’s health records, lifestyle choices, and preferences.
Why is this level of customization important to consumers? The benefit is that it ensures they receive the most appropriate care for their condition. This can potentially lead to better outcomes and a more satisfying care experience. It also allows consumers to have more self-direction and control over their care as they can select services as needed within their approved budgets. Overall, this is something that benefits providers under value-based payment models, as they can better outcomes and provide only the care necessary, which could reduce costs.
Another benefit of AI in home health and home care is the ability of AI’s predictive analytics. By identifying risks and potential health issues before they escalate, AI allows for interventions that can prevent hospitalizations, reduce complications, and maintain an individual’s health within the comfort of their home. Again, this lowers costs and allows individuals to maintain better health outcomes in the comfort of their home.
AI Can Increase Independence and Safety for Home Care and Home Health Users
Perhaps the biggest benefits of AI in home health and home care is the ability to increase safety and independence for consumers. By integrating AI technologies into home care settings, individuals can enjoy a higher degree of autonomy while ensuring they are safe and well-monitored.
For example, AI-powered systems can manage daily tasks that might be challenging for individuals with physical or cognitive impairments. Smart home devices can control lighting, thermostats, and security systems through voice commands or automated schedules. In addition, AI-driven medication dispensers or reminders can let consumers know when to take their medication, dispense the correct doses, and alert caregivers if a dose is missed. Another example is a mobility assistance robot (MAR) such as an electronic walker that provides the ability to move around the house much easier and gives users an added sense of independence.
Safety is another critical area where AI makes a significant impact for home health and home care consumers. Advanced monitoring systems equipped with AI, including wearables and cameras throughout the home, can detect unusual activities, such as falls or prolonged inactivity. Patient monitoring wearables can also monitor vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Deviations can trigger instant alerts to caregivers or emergency services so there can be timely intervention.
Through these applications, AI not only bolsters the independence of homebound individuals but also provides increased safety, creating a care environment that supports both freedom and well-being.
Providers Experience Benefits From Implementation Too
AI-driven solutions can also benefit providers. AI-enabled tools can handle scheduling, documentation, billing, medication reminders, and monitoring tasks with greater accuracy and efficiency than manual processes. This automation significantly reduces the workload on caregivers and administrative staff, which frees them to devote more time and attention to care, and reduces burnout. This is especially important as the industry is suffering through workforce shortages that we don’t expect to end anytime soon.
This automation of tasks does more than streamline operations. It also enhances the quality of care that consumers receive. With more time available, caregivers can focus on the human aspect of care—building relationships, providing emotional support, and delivering personalized care that addresses an individual’s physical, emotional, and social needs. This increased time for direct interaction enhances the overall care experience, which is essential for well-being and recovery.
However, something we need to keep in mind when implementing AI in home health and home care is the support and investment that comes with it. Providers, particularly smaller practices and those in underserved areas, often need financial assistance to acquire the necessary AI technology and infrastructure. This includes funding for purchasing hardware, software, and securing data storage to protect patient privacy and data. Beyond the financial aspects, there is a significant need for proper training and continuous education for healthcare professionals to effectively use AI tools. Training ensures that providers and caregivers understand the technology and can integrate AI solutions seamlessly into their existing workflows. Addressing these needs is crucial for the successful adoption of AI in healthcare settings. This is an area that value-based payments can assist with by incentivizing health plans and providers to invest in AI technology to boost health outcomes and consumer satisfaction.
Advocates Perspective
From advanced monitoring and personalized care plans to increased safety and autonomy, AI boosts what truly matters—the well-being of consumers. As AI continues to evolve and integrate into home health care, it will not only improve operational efficiencies but also elevate the standard of care. In embracing AI in conjunction with human interaction, the home care and home health care industries can improve quality of care and find more success in value-based payment models. However, we need to ensure that providers across the board have the support needed to properly implement AI technology, as well as train those using it.
Keep an eye out for next week’s blog in our AI miniseries as we dive into how AI is making an impact in behavioral health and addressing health-related social needs!
Onward!
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About the Author
Fady Sahhar brings over 30 years of senior management experience working with major multinational companies including Sara Lee, Mobil Oil, Tenneco Packaging, Pactiv, Progressive Insurance, Transitions Optical, PPG Industries and Essilor (France).
His corporate responsibilities included new product development, strategic planning, marketing management, and global sales. He has developed a number of global communications networks, launched products in over 45 countries, and managed a number of branded patented products.
About the Co-Author
Mandy Sahhar provides experience in digital marketing, event management, and business development. Her background has allowed her to get in on the ground floor of marketing efforts including website design, content marketing, and trade show planning. Through her modern approach, she focuses on bringing businesses into the new digital age of marketing through unique approaches and focused content creation. With a passion for communications, she can bring a fresh perspective to an ever-changing industry. Mandy has an MBA with a marketing concentration from Canisius College.