Summary
Objective
To discuss trends in information technology (IT) for the future of healthcare.
Method
To report from the viewpoint of a global healthcare IT enterprise.
Results
Healthcare IT consists of far more than electronic storage of information and automation
of existing manual processes. It is the linchpin in an effective care process. Systems
are available today that coordinate the complex processes across healthcare enterprises
– providing alerts and reminders that can help healthcare providers not only operate
more effectively but protect patient safety. The next revolution in healthcare information
technology – personalized, evidence-based medicine, with information technology at
the hub – is on the horizon.
Conclusions
Although the healthcare industry has lagged behind many other industries in the adoption
of sophisticated IT systems, perhaps no other industry can benefit as much from its
use. Medical informatics subject matter experts must continue to advocate and support
IT adoption for both the effects of process improvement and cost containment and for
its potential to impact care outcomes.
Keywords
Information technology - healthcare - personalized medicine - evidence-based medicine
- workflow
