In today’s digital age, clinics face an array of technology systems and workflow opportunities—and challenges.
- Ransomware is a constant threat, yet clinics are often too busy to assess security tools that could help.
- Valuable provincial systems offer resources, digital services, and more, but preparing to sign-up to these systems requires clinics to have a minimum set of standards in place.
- Tech tools and solutions can sometimes raise more questions than answers, which is challenging for clinics already operating at or near capacity.
If you’re a Vancouver-based family practice clinic dealing with any of these challenges, the Patient Medical Home (PMH) Connectivity and Digitization Program is for you! This program provides free, one-on-one support sessions to help clinics tackle these issues and take advantage of available tools. If you’re looking to get organized and make the most of digital resources, joining the program is a no-brainer!
Meet Andy Wynden
Andy Wynden, officially a Customer Support Specialist, is sometimes known as a “Tech Concierge” or even a “Personal Googler.” He’s one of the Vancouver Division’s experts who can help clinics understand their tech needs and make the most of tools they might not even know about. In short, he’s exactly the kind of person you want on your team.
“Patients are a clinic’s first priority,” says Wynden. “Having someone visit the clinic to provide customized technological support can be very helpful. My role is to offer assistance tailored to each clinic’s unique situation.”1
Three Types of Challenges, Three Supportive Consultations
The program includes three distinct offerings, each providing valuable one-on-one guidance.
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Security and Technology Assessment
This 1-2 hour in-person session involves a consultant reviewing your existing technology and security setup before making recommendations.
“Healthcare clinics hold an immense amount of highly sensitive information,” Wynden explains. “This makes them particularly attractive targets for ransomware attackers.”
According to Wynden, clinics with the weakest security measures are often the ones that are already stretched thin and unable to invest time or resources into the issue.
“We provide recommendations that feel manageable for them,” he says. “It’s an incremental process.”
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Provincial System Connectivity Assistance
This consultation helps PMH clinics assess and access provincial systems they might not yet be using, such as CareConnect, PharmaNet, Pathways, OceanMD, Health Data Coalition, and more.
“We offer clinics information on these systems and work with our partners to guide and support them through the registration process,” Wynden explains.
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Tech Solution Navigation
This service supports clinics in sorting through various tech tools and workflows that impact their daily operations.
“Choosing the right tools and products can be a huge burden,” says Wynden. “I get a broad range of questions during these sessions.”
Supportive Consultations with Actionable Results
The program is designed to meet clinics where they are. This isn’t an audit or a finger-wagging exercise; it’s a friendly, supportive consultation that provides practical, actionable advice. The program complements rather than duplicates resources from Doctors of BC or the Physician Support Program, offering clinics an additional and valuable resource.
While the program doesn’t provide day-to-day tech support for routine computer or software issues, it does help clinics assess their overall tech situation and take steps in the right direction. After the final session, participants receive a written report with clear recommendations and instructions. Participating clinics are also eligible to receive financial support of up to $2,500 to assist with implementing some of the program's recommended technology and security improvements. Check out the program website Q+A for info on funding criteria.
Read more about the PMH Connectivity and Digitization Program and get started today!
Cited Sources
1 Personal communication with Andy Wynden