A recent study by Black Book Research highlights significant challenges in digital health workflows across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., despite advancements in electronic health records (EHRs) and artificial intelligence (AI).
The survey, which involved 2,040 clinicians, revealed a persistent gap in clinical loop closure, with a global index score of 44 out of 100. Clinicians reported that while digital systems can initiate tasks, they often require manual follow-up to confirm task completion. In the U.S., the score was the lowest at 41, attributed to issues such as payer friction and overwhelming portal demands. In Canada, a score of 45 was linked to data fragmentation across provinces, while the U.K. scored 46, indicating challenges in discharge and referral processes.
In the U.S., 79% of clinicians indicated they perform manual follow-ups weekly, with many citing prior authorization and payer checks as significant burdens. In Canada, issues with interoperability and data usability were prevalent, as 72% reported similar manual follow-ups. The U.K. clinicians noted that despite improvements in electronic patient records, manual tracking remains necessary for discharge and referral processes.
This report underscores that digital health initiatives must not only focus on technology adoption but also on ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently without requiring additional manual intervention from clinicians. The findings suggest that a reevaluation of digital health metrics is necessary, emphasizing the importance of visible task ownership and closure in clinical workflows.