Implementing virtual desktops for clinical research at an academic health center: a case report

Objectives: To address the challenges of sharing clinical research data through the implementation of cloud-based virtual desktops, enhancing collaboration among researchers while maintaining data security.

Materials and methods: This case study details the deployment of virtual desktops at UMass Chan Medical School (UMass Chan). The process involved forming a Research Informatics Steering Executive workgroup, identifying key requirements, implementing Amazon WorkSpaces, and establishing configurable data management for research support.

Results: Key lessons include the significance of collaboration, balancing user-friendliness and functionality, flexibility in data management, maximizing virtual desktop efficiency within budget constraints, and continuous user feedback. The implementation of virtual desktops supports secure collaborative research, advancing medical knowledge and improving healthcare outcomes.

Discussion: The structured approach to implementing virtual desktops addresses data security, regulatory compliance, and real-time collaboration challenges. Continuous feedback and iterative improvements have enhanced the system's effectiveness.

Conclusion: The successful implementation of virtual desktops at UMass Chan demonstrates the potential for such systems to support secure, collaborative research, offering insights for similar initiatives in other academic health centers.