Key Takeaways

• Health systems are integrating AI with virtualization to enhance data management and visibility.
• Modernizing core infrastructure is vital for effective virtualization, supporting technologies like AI and advanced analytics.
• AI tools can simplify the learning curve for virtualization technologies and provide enhanced data protection capabilities.

Integration of AI in Virtualization

Health systems are increasingly recognizing the benefits of integrating AI with virtualization to improve data management and operational visibility. Mary Washington Healthcare in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is one such example, having deployed VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) to enhance its IT operations. Plans are underway to automate virtual machines using VCF Automation.

According to Sachin Mullick, director of product management for OpenShift Virtualization and OpenShift Edge at Red Hat, utilizing AI in virtualization strategies involves a learning curve. However, “built-in generative AI assistants from the virtualization provider can significantly reduce the learning curve,” he notes, helping with troubleshooting and resolving complex issues swiftly. AI is also instrumental in identifying sensitive patient health information, controlling access, and preventing data leaks.

The use of full-stack virtualization and automation is becoming essential for operating AI workloads, including large language models. Miller emphasizes that modern platforms need both virtual machines and Kubernetes workloads to effectively run AI applications.

Strategies for Optimizing Virtualization in Healthcare

Shannon Germain Farraher, a senior analyst for healthcare at Forrester, stresses the importance of modernizing core infrastructure. She asserts that virtualization optimization is most effective when aligned with enterprise-wide modernization initiatives. To enhance the performance and resilience of virtualized workloads, health systems should invest in cloud solutions, security enhancements, and SaaS/PaaS ecosystems, along with robust data infrastructure.

Embedding a comprehensive virtualization strategy into broader digital transformation efforts—like clinician enablement, automation, and analytics—can help prevent fragmented modernization. Germain Farraher advises large health systems to modernize their compute, network, and storage capabilities, facilitating advanced analytics and digital platforms across the enterprise. Mid-sized health systems are encouraged to build a solid cloud infrastructure, while smaller practices should focus on stabilizing infrastructure with compliance-first IT and secure telehealth options.

This multifaceted approach ensures that virtual environments can consistently support clinical, operational, and data-intensive workloads in a reliable and cost-effective manner.

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