The healthcare sector has not been spared from digital transformation, especially during the pandemic years that saw an increased need for telemedicine and digital services. In line with this demand, KPJ Healthcare Bhd has invested in modernising its IT infrastructure and piloting artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions.

This upgrade is crucial, says its chief digital officer Nantha Kumar Subramanian, to ensure that future systems are interoperable and enhanced with AI capabilities for better patient care outcomes.

Today, KPJ Healthcare is aiming to be at the forefront of digital innovation in the healthcare sector, with a focus on several AI-powered, robotic and smart ward initiatives. Nantha says these efforts are designed to enhance patient care while simultaneously reducing administrative tasks.

The organisation is constantly improving its internal and external digital channels. It has implemented a group-wide hospital information system to streamline operations and improve patient services. Complementing these technological advancements is the ongoing development of a comprehensive mobile app that will incorporate a generative AI chatbot.

A key aspect of KPJ Healthcare’s strategy involves forming strategic partnerships with industry leaders to bring cutting-edge technologies to the forefront. This includes the implementation of 5G-based holomedicine, which utilises augmented and virtual reality technologies, offering a new dimension to patient treatment and care.

“The holomedicine solution is done in collaboration with apoQlar and marks our entry into the realm of medical mixed reality research, involving mixed reality technologies to improve surgical planning, patient education and medical training, thus positioning KPJ Healthcare at the forefront of this field,” says Nantha.

“These efforts contribute to enhancing patient care, operational efficiencies and overall digital readiness. We also continuously monitor new technologies that can assist with patients and clinical care by setting up pilot programmes at hospitals for solution testing.”

The digital transformation at KPJ Healthcare has been crafted to align with Johor Corporation’s (JCorp) overarching digital strategy. By spearheading internal and customer-oriented digital initiatives, the healthcare sector mirrors JCorp’s commitment to leveraging technology for organisational advancement.

KPJ Healthcare is currently exploring AI in the wellness and healthcare space, with a vision to harness its potential for transformative outcomes. Nantha says the organisation is still trialling AI and its approach is not just about adopting the latest technologies, but strategically deploying AI to enhance patient care, optimise operations and usher in a new era of healthcare excellence.

He explains that AI can streamline hospital operations by optimising scheduling, reducing wait times and managing patient flow. This not only improves patient satisfaction but also reduces costs, creating a more sustainable business model.

“We are currently undergoing testing for an integrated, digital nursing dashboard to improve the patient experience while reducing repetitive tasks,” he says.

AI-driven predictive analytics has the ability to foresee potential health risks and patient needs, resulting in proactive healthcare planning and potentially reducing complications and personalising patient care.

“Trials are underway to implement AI algorithms to assist in diagnosing medical conditions. These AI tools are being tested for their ability to analyse medical imaging, pathology reports and clinical data, with the goal of providing more accurate and timely diagnostic insights,” he says.

“We are also exploring the use of AI algorithms to analyse patient data to create personalised treatment plans. These plans would consider individual health histories, genetic factors and lifestyle choices.”

KPJ’s initiatives continue to contribute to measurable and real-time monitoring with predictive analytics to give the final results in a safer healthcare environment, improved patient monitoring and proactive responses.

Internally, KPJ adopts solutions that streamline routine tasks, optimising the workflow for healthcare providers. This efficiency leads to time saving and productivity uplift, allowing staff to focus more on direct patient care, says Nantha.

“The data gathered through these digital channels enables KPJ Healthcare to make more informed decisions, refine marketing strategies, and personalise services, enhancing the overall customer experience,” he says.

“Our commitment extends beyond effective healthcare to ensuring it is accessible, affordable and, most importantly, patient-centric. These advancements are a testament to our dedication to creating a healthcare system that is not only advanced but also equitable and inclusive.”