Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Achieves Historic HIMSS Digital Certifications in Taiwan
First of Its Kind Certification
Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH) in Linkou, located in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, has made headlines by becoming the first hospital in the country to achieve a Stage 6 validation for the HIMSS Digital Imaging Adoption Model (DIAM). This accolade marks a significant leap forward in Taiwan’s healthcare capabilities, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to advancing its digital imaging technologies.
Pursuing Excellence in Infrastructure
In addition to this groundbreaking achievement, CGMH Linkou has also been validated for Stage 7 of the HIMSS Infrastructure Adoption Model (INFRAM), setting new standards for healthcare information technology in the region. These validations demonstrate the hospital’s exceptional capabilities in integrating digital technologies into patient care.
Understanding the HIMSS Models
The DIAM model evaluates an organization’s proficiency in utilizing digital imaging, focusing on improving medical imaging processes with the latest technologies. Meanwhile, the INFRAM model assesses infrastructure maturity through criteria such as cybersecurity, sustainability, and operational performance. With their recent certifies, CGMH Linkou stands out as a leader in healthcare IT infrastructures.
Collaborative Efforts in Digital Imaging
Achieving the HISMS DIAM validation required a concerted effort from the hospital’s Information Management Department, which closely collaborated with specialized medical teams. This teamwork involved numerous cross-disciplinary meetings aimed at integrating clinical knowledge with IT innovations. “Our specialized medical teams played a key role in ensuring that our digital imaging technology aligns with clinical decision-making and patient care,” said Dr. Li-Jen Wang, Chair of CGMH Linkou’s Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention.
Innovative Technology at the Core
One of the standout features of CGMH Linkou’s digital imaging progress is the implementation of the AVIEW LCS Plus system developed by Coreline Soft. This AI-based software, introduced in September 2023, enhances low-dose CT chest imaging, facilitating early detection of lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and coronary artery calcification. The integration of this software has led to an astounding reduction in radiologist workload, allowing for quicker diagnostic processes within the hospital.
Outstanding IT Governance
In just a year, CGMH Linkou markedly upgraded its INFRAM validation to its highest stage, a feat attributed to a significant collaborative effort from various departments. These advancements were not achieved in isolation; they stemmed from an overarching project centered on modernizing the Medical Data Center that began in 2021. “We faced challenges with rapid system expansion and needed to rethink our approach to data center management and cybersecurity,” explained Hui-Yuan Shih, head of the department of medical information management.
Recognition for Cybersecurity Measures
During the INFRAM validation process, HIMSS assessors commended CGMH Linkou for its robust cybersecurity measures. The hospital implemented a multi-layered security strategy encompassing advanced data management protocols and enhanced network designs utilizing software-defined networking (SDN) and high-speed fiber networks adhering to TIA-942 data center standards.
Real-Time Monitoring for Enhanced Security
A highlight of CGMH Linkou’s cybersecurity efforts is the establishment of integrated information monitoring panels at the Security Operations Center (SOC). This facility offers real-time surveillance and rapid threat detection, equipped with features including Managed Detection and Response systems, as well as two-factor authentication. Such measures reflect a strong commitment to a zero-trust cybersecurity approach.
Streamlined Equipment Management
The introduction of SDN technology has allowed CGMH Linkou to set up new equipment 40% faster than traditional methods, further enhancing operational efficiency. The previous process, which could take up to four hours, has been shortened to just 2-3 hours due to improvements in virtualization and networking technologies.
Accelerated Data Transmission Speeds
Upgrades to a high-speed wireless network have significantly enhanced data transmission speeds at CGMH Linkou, claiming increases of more than five times compared to older systems. This leap in technology enables more effective remote data synchronization and supports expansive big data transfers.
Cultural Shift Towards Innovation
"This journey has not just been about upgrading technology but also about refining our management practices and cultivating an organizational culture focused on excellence,” said Kun-Ju Lin, Deputy Chief of the Information Security Committee at CGMH Linkou. These developments enable the hospital to provide high-quality care in a technology-driven environment.
Plans for Future Innovations
With both the INFRAM and DIAM validations under its belt, CGMH Linkou is poised to amplify its investments in two pivotal areas: data analytics and medical imaging management. The hospital has plans to create a big data analytics platform, fortifying its AI capabilities and improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
Next Steps Towards Stage 7 DIAM
CGMH Linkou is setting its sights on achieving Stage 7 DIAM, which would include implementing a comprehensive radiation dose tracking system and upgrading digital imaging applications for better patient engagement. The hospital is also focused on improving data access and transmission stability while enhancing long-term storage capacity and digital resilience against cybersecurity threats.
Holistic Vision for Digital Healthcare
According to Prof Lin, these initiatives aim to foster an intelligent, interconnected data ecosystem while enhancing clinical decision-making and personalized care. The emphasis on continuous improvement in healthcare services underpins CGMH Linkou’s future aspirations.
Official Statements on Achievements
"Achieving Stage 7 in HIMSS INFRAM indicates that we have reached a high level of digital maturity and security,” commented CGMH Linkou Superintendent Dr. Chien-Tzung Chen. “This enhances our operational efficiency and allows us to deliver superior patient care that meets global standards in healthcare IT.”
Commitment to Healthcare Evolution
Professor Dr. Ming-Shien Wen, a leader in the hospital’s smart healthcare committee, stated, “Through HIMSS certification, we ensure that our use of digital imaging technologies aligns with international standards, ultimately enabling accurate and timely diagnoses for our patients.”
Conclusion: A Model for the Future
The achievements of CGMH Linkou set a powerful precedent not only within Taiwan but also serve as a benchmark for hospitals globally. As they move forward, the focus on innovation, technology, and integrated care will undoubtedly position the hospital as a leader in the transformation of healthcare services, benefiting patients and healthcare professionals alike.
