Technology continues to make its mark throughout all aspects of our lives – including healthcare.
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At the Brant Community Healthcare System (Brantford General Hospital and The Willett Hospital in Paris) every department from diagnostic imaging to the pharmacy to patient procedures combines medicine with technology. So much, that a specialist in both medicine and technology is leading the way to enhance the patient’s experience by capitalizing on technology.
Dr. Dale Kalina, who was raised in Oakville Ontario, completed his Fellowship in infectious diseases at the McMaster University Michael DeGroote School of Medicine, and then went on to obtain an MBA in Digital Transformation from the DeGroote School of Business.
Earlier this year, Kalina joined the Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) in a dual role as an infectious disease specialist and the chief medical information officer.
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“Computer technology provides the ability to expand and improve our services and care for patients,” Kalina said. “We saw this during the COVID-19 pandemic when healthcare providers and patients met virtually using Zoom and other computer apps. However, that is just the beginning to communicate with patients wherever they may be.”
Kalina explained that digital health transformation at BCHS has become so much more than a Zoom call.
“ConnectMyHealth is a digital health solution that provides patients with an online, single access channel to view their health records,” Kalina said. “We have received a very positive response since launching less than a year ago at the Brantford General Hospital and the Willett Hospital in Paris, and Norfolk General Hospital in Simcoe.”
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Along with accessing their health records, patients can also follow their visits to laboratories, and other clinics. ConnectMyHealth is being expanded to book medical appointments with physicians, and procedures such as diagnostic imaging across the province.
Krystal and Robb Nagy believe in ConnectMyHealth. Their son was born with congenital heart defects which resulted in extended stays in the hospital and numerous out-patient visits.
“ConnectMyHealth is a tremendous record-keeping process for us as we navigate between hospitals, physicians, and other caregivers,” Krystal said. “We rely on it so much.”
To date, almost 40 hospitals throughout southern Ontario are participating. And the number continues to grow. There is no charge and patients with a valid Ontario Health card can create an account by visiting www.ConnectMyHealth.ca.
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Much of digital health transformation has taken place elsewhere in the world, however, Kalina says the focus is now on Canada, including the Brantford region.
“It is an exciting field. In perhaps 10 years there will be even better connectivity and that will lead to even better care for our patients,” Kalina said. “People will have more tools they can access and working together with healthcare providers will enhance health outcomes.”
Medicine and technology have always worked hand in hand. And as Kalina states, patients are confident with ConnectMyHealth. “With peace of mind the sky is the limit.”
Hospital Insider is written by Gary Chalk who assists with communications for the Brant Community Healthcare System.
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