Question

Cloudy with a Chance of Data:

One way of addressing Big Data and its challenges is to store data in “the cloud.” Using “the cloud” means storing and accessing data over the internet instead of on a local computer. Most people assume that this method reduces costs, increases accessibility, and provide better protection for information sharing. However, healthcare professionals have conflicting perspectives on how this type of storage can be used in healthcare.

Imagine that you are a healthcare manager for a hospital that is considering the use of cloud-based storage for patient data. You are responsible for making a recommendation for cloud-based storage. Evaluate the case studies and articles that explore the use of Big Data and Cloud-based storage:

"Big Data Ethics" (Richards & King, Wake Forest Law Review)

"Ethical Issues in the Big Data Industry" (Kirsten E. Martin, MIS Quarterly Executive)

"The Cloud Evolution" (Stephen Katona, PM Network)

"To Cloud or Not to Cloud" (Kumar Malavalli, SiliconIndia)

Then, in a 2-page summary:

Discuss the concept of big data and managing information from health information systems.

Discuss potential advantages and disadvantages of using cloud-based storage for big data.

Describe the security and ethical standards of using internet-based storage and retrieval systems.

Make a recommendation that your hospital use or not use cloud-based storage; explain your reasoning with supportive references.

Answer 1

Discuss potential advantages and disadvantages of using cloud-based storage for big data

Advantages:

1. Cost efficient as the cloud storage has more space available and no need of disks or any external storage devices which saves money and resources of the concern company.
2. Accessibility for storage files from any location with internet .
3. Timesaving as you can send and share files with ease to individual and groups .
4. Backup is always available if something goes wrong, as cloud can be retreived for any data
5. Increased accountability as mutiple projects can be made at a time

?Disadvantages:

1. Dependency as internet connection and power supply is needed.
2. Cost efficient for companies but in homes individually it costs more
3. Security issues arise as the data stored may be very important and also about the concerned company.Eventhough there are more advanced security measures in cloud storage still there are issues in security as the data stored are confidential.
4. Less feasibility as the cloud storage if updated , all the other local devices also need to be updated . If any issues arise it can be resolved by IT departments mostly.

Discuss the concept of big data and managing information from health information systems

Big data storing in cloud is increasing in healthcare institutions nowadays as there are more datas regarding patient and their care . ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD system uses cloud storage as it is cost saving and easily accessible.Through this the clinical outcomes and patients condition can be analysed more efficiently by comparing both in same device and software. Big data also contains all demographic data regarding patient so we can process quickly the needs.  Healthcare personnels will have accesss to detect and diagnose diseases by assigning more essential tests based on a patient’s data and regulate drug doses to minimize side effects and improve effectiveness. It will also provide great support for analyzing and help in mapping the 3 billion DNA base pairs as there is access to all systems via internet.Managing all the information sometimes leads to security issues and if no internet we cannot access the datas needed. So uninterrupted power supply and internet connection is important. Sensors are used in patient bedsides and connected to cloud storage and it can be always noted by healthcare providers helping in 24 /7 monitoring . Way to improve the professional healthcare quality.

Describe the security and ethical standards of using internet-based storage and retrieval systems.

The provider and the person accessing the cloud storage should know to handle technologies to minimise the risks.

Standard encrytion technology should be used as datas are very confidential and important.

Be aware of hackers and other threats.

Always have updated the cloud for effective storage and access.