With all the buzz today about social networking, traditional methods of communication are being re-thought and re-defined. Web-enabled platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, to name a few, are creating new opportunities to stay connected.

I would like to think that TCS has been in the “connection” and “communication” business since the company was founded over a quarter of a century ago. With Acuity Advanced Care™ (ACUITY) and its predecessor applications, TCS has led the way in providing technology-based platforms to help clinicians do a better job communicating with and taking care of patients.

Part of this includes keeping case managers and providers connected with their patients or clients, and helping health plans, hospitals and others to facilitate coverage decisions. In today’s environment, this includes bi-directional communications to manage chronic illnesses and promote healthier lifestyles.

To that end, applications like ACUITY promote the aggregation of disparate data into useful information streams to promote evidence-based decision-making and to automate key elements of the medical management system.

Charles Dickens reminded us over a century ago about some of the basic limitations associated with a technology-based solution when he said: “Electric communication will never be a substitute for the face of someone who with their soul encourages another person to be brave and true.”

Now, in this case, he was probably talking about the telegraph, which of course is a very rudimentary technology-enabled communication platform. However, there is truth in what he says even today.

Therefore, to heed Mr. Dickens’ advice, TCS applications do even more than just promote “electronic communication.” TCS applications enhance all types of connectivity between providers and patients – including face-to-face interactions. His quote touches upon a primary goal within the practice of case management – to really engage a patient or client in a meaningful way to improve clinical and financial outcomes in a given population.

Yes, the world, including health care, keeps on getting more complicated – but enhancing communication links at all levels will remain a top priority as TCS supports its customers and their patients.