Measuring the ROI of digital transformation in health care

Meeting the digital transformation moment

For health care and life sciences organizations, the leap into digital transformation isn’t just about staying current; it’s about capturing value in a digital-first world. At Deloitte, we recognize the multifaceted value digital transformation brings to health care organizations—from enhancing patient care to streamlining operations.

The potential for digital technologies to drive growth, consumer-centricity, improved health outcomes, and operational efficiency is immense. However, with the substantial investment these technologies demand, leaders face the critical challenge of identifying and measuring the ROI of digital transformation initiatives.

To support this process, we developed the Digital Transformation Value Database with approximately 50 individual levers across seven categories that health care organizations can leverage to predict quantified value. This framework, coupled with benchmark data from the evolving Digital Transformation Value Database, can empower organizations to make informed decisions about their digital investments. Download the report to explore the framework as well as a compelling business case for it.

Defining terms and context

The definition of a digital transformation varies across organizations. Generally, we define a digital transformation to be the use of digital technologies and digital channels in an integrated manner to radically improve the performance and reach of an organization. This type of transformation requires a human-centered approach to designing experiences and developing strategies that reflect the priorities, values, and goals of its users and the organization.

Digital transformations in the health care industry are supported by three primary pillars interacting with several external forces:

Products, services, and experiences
This pillar reflects the way health care organizations address consumer needs—whether they are members, prospects, patients, caregivers, clinicians, care teams, etc. Digital products, services, and experiences can deliver an improved patient experience, enhanced retention, streamlined workflows, and reduced clinician burnout.

Digital enterprise
The second pillar describes an organization’s functional capabilities, or its “digital DNA”—for example, how digital capabilities can improve and modernize talent and retention strategy, the finance organization, and the supply chain as well as how digital ways of working and agile enterprises can improve culture and drive efficiency and consumer-centricity.

Digital core
The final pilar is focused on the “middle layer”—advanced analytics, omnichannel orchestration, and extensible architecture—which enables the other two pillars to transform the way organizations operate. Many health care organizations are hindered by outdated legacy systems and antiquated data management that often stifle innovation. Advancing the digital core is imperative to long-term transformation.

Navigating and measuring the ROI of digital transformation

Enhancing the measurability and impact of digital transformation in health care is essential for realizing its full value. Our framework and benchmark data provide the clarity needed to embark on these initiatives with confidence, ensuring that every investment moves you closer to your long-term goals.

Ways to increase impact and measurability

• Combine multiple digital investments to unlock network effects
• Combine with other sources of impact
• Implement attribution methodologies
• Gather more signals from more sources
• Track touches to provide more clarity on customer lifetime value

By implementing these strategies, health care organizations can achieve a more accurate measurement of a digital transformation’s impact, leading to improved decision-making, planning for future digital investments, and, ultimately, enhancing the consumer experience and organizational performance. Download our report for a deeper dive into these approaches.

Begin your digital transformation journey

At Deloitte, we understand the journey from metrics to value. Our approach isn’t just about implementing technology; it’s about transforming your organization to thrive in a digital future. We guide you through every step of the digital transformation process, from selecting the right initiatives to measuring their impact on your bottom line.

Ready to explore the full potential of digital transformation in your organization? For a personalized consultation and to learn more about how we can support your journey, let’s set up a conversation.