Myth-busting the cloud
Featured Products Promotional FeaturesPosted by: Dental Design 21st December 2021
In recent years, cloud technology has become massively popular, especially as it has a number of benefits over traditional digital systems.
But what actually is the cloud and is everything you’ve heard about cloud technology true? It’s time to bust some myths and make it clear what cloud technology can do for you and your practice.
The cloud in a nutshell
To put it simply, the cloud is a global network of servers that act together as one digital ecosystem. This means that it has no set location and can generally be accessed anytime, anywhere, as long as there is an internet connection. In fact, many everyday pieces of software and functions that you use on your phone are examples of cloud technology, such as social media apps, your emails and even online banking.
However, despite this technology being widespread, there are a number of misconceptions associated with it. Here are some of the myths:
Myth 1: the cloud is less secure
With digital security being of the utmost importance in dental settings, safety from outside threats is a number one priority.
Patient data and other sensitive information is a gold mine for hackers and digital scammers, and some sources state that a single patient record, complete with their name, address and other pertinent information, is worth significantly more on the black market than a single piece of data such as credit card details. One valuation suggested that one patient record could be worth as much as $250 (around £180) on the black market, and when you consider that a digital attack could compromise hundreds, if not thousands of healthcare records, you can see why they are a lucrative target.[i]
So, are cloud systems less secure? In the vast majority of cases, cloud-based systems are actually more secure than hardwired alternatives. Most of these technologies automatically encrypt data when it is uploaded, and many hosts of these platforms will have their own dedicated experts to help ensure data security, meaning that you no longer have to rely on someone in your office in order to guarantee that data remains safe. Plus, as they have no fixed location, in the event of a burglary or any accident such as a fire, you can rest assured that data isn’t compromised.
Myth 2: using the cloud means you have less control over your data
One popular misconception about cloud technology is the idea that, because there is no physical place where the data is stored, users have less control over it. This is one of those myths that is the complete opposite of the truth and in actuality, the cloud allows for better control over data for a number of reasons.
Anytime, anywhere access is a huge benefit as it means that professionals can access data on demand and are no longer tethered to a physical system in their place of work. For dentists, this can make a significant difference, especially as you can then easily work on cases outside of practice hours, assess complex needs and have everything you need at your fingertips to face whatever challenges lie ahead. This doesn’t just help dentists and cloud-based systems can be used by practice managers to look closer at business analytics outside of work hours if necessary, giving them greater control over the data.
It’s worth pointing out that cloud-based systems prioritise compliance too, so you can rest assured that your files are safe while you remain within guidelines.
Myth 3: the cloud is a passing fad
Technologies can have a short lifespan, so it’s understandable that some people are wary about the future of the cloud and how this will impact any cloud-based systems. However, with so many pieces of software and applications using the cloud, it is unlikely that this sort of technology will become outdated anytime soon. This is especially true considering it brings convenience, wider access and a more streamlined approach to how people work, as well as being adaptable to businesses of all types regardless of what records and other data they want to store.
So, now that these myths are busted what’s stopping you from exploring a cloud-based option for your practice? Sensei Cloud practice management software from Carestream Dental encapsulates all of the benefits of traditional cloud-based software while also offering professionals a number of innovative perks. Regularly updated according to user feedback, the system evolves as you use it to seamlessly meet your current and future demands. Plus, as the system combines cutting-edge business analytics with cloud-based functionality, it means professionals can take a more holistic approach to their practice management.
Don’t believe the myths
As with any investment, it always pays to do your research and ensure that you don’t believe the myths. Cloud-based systems are efficient, cutting-edge and a great opportunity to expand the way that your practice works in a dynamic and exciting way – so don’t let misinformation hold you back!
Cheryl Hayes
DPMS Regional Product Manager
Europe, Middle East & Africa
For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or
visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk
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[i] SecureLink. Hackers, Breaches, And The Value of Healthcare Data. Link: https://www.securelink.com/blog/healthcare-data-new-prize-hackers/[Last accessed August21].
