Digital tools in APAC hospitals most widely used for online scheduling

Japan and South Korea hospitals were distinct from other regions in Asia.

About 40% of hospitals in Asia Pacific use digital tools for patient administration and information tools, with China, India and SEA all reporting online scheduling as the most implemented tool (60%, 58% and 53%, respectively).

"Other commonly adopted solutions include bill estimation, personalized information for patients and patient-accessible health records," read the report from L.E.K. Consulting.

South Korean hospitals were a bit distinct from others as they use digital tools for wellness- and treatment-related solutions, especially tailored disease management programs and diagnosis based on artificial intelligence (AI). Adoption of such tools is at around 50%-60% vs. 30%-40% in other regions.

Japan leads the regions, using digital tools with a high level of adoption of remote consultations, with close to 50% of respondents reporting use in GP/specialist interactions.

In Southeast Asia, improving patient care was reported as the main benefit of digital solutions in both public and private hospitals, while private hospitals also emphasized the potential value of digital providing new revenue streams (e.g., telehealth consultations).

"Increasing staff efficiency, improving patient satisfaction and reducing medical errors were also viewed as key benefits in both the public and private sectors," read the report.