Health companies still struggle with tech infrastructure

Health organizations have unique challenges when it comes to device usage, as patient data must be kept private and secure while communication among employees and with patients is essential. Cash-strapped smaller hospitals in particular can struggle with maintaining the proper communications infrastructure. One potential solution for the industry is 5G networks. In January, Rush University Medical Center became the first hospital to roll out the technology, using AT&T. Experts say 5G could be up to 10 times faster than today's 4G LTE networks, but so far most hospitals have taken a wait and see approach. But Rush CIO Shafiq Rob told Healthcare Dive earlier this year smaller facilities could see major return on investment with 5G. "A big hospital — all the fiber comes to it. But for a rinky-dink hospital or clinic, I can't spend millions of dollars running lines, but we have to support the phones and computers. What 5G will do is become the primary way they get coverage," he said.