Microsoft joins hospital chain Providence to build 'hospital of the future'

Microsoft is working with Providence St. Joseph CEO Rod Hochman said the chain would adapt an existing facility in the Seattle area, near Microsoft's headquarters. The two companies have discussed their vision for a "hospital of the future" for months, Hochman said, including during several one-on-ones with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. The move is part of Microsoft's latest run at the health-care business after previous efforts, including hospital IT software called Amalga, failed to gain much traction. Meanwhile Apple, Amazon and Alphabet are also looking into the $3.5 trillion sector, but with different areas of focus, ranging from clinical trials to medical devices. The strategic priorities for the new effort involve improving the electronic medical record so that it's easier for doctors, nurses and other health providers to find and share information.