The Goal of Health Information Technology

Health information technology involves the processing and application of health related data through the use of technology to support all aspects of health care. This includes data entry, the conversion of data to useful information, and the application of the information to leverage the delivery of health care.

Background

• The use of information technology in health care settings to support the delivery of care is endorsed by several organizations, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources. Health information technology involves stationary and mobile devices, ranging from smart phones to large information technology systems that support all aspects of the health care system. There are several goals of health information technology, including promoting easier access to medical records, improved quality of care and the reduction of medical errors.

Access

• Health information technology allows for easier access to medical records.

  A key goal of health information technology is to allow for greater access to health care records and information. Health information technology systems can allow a patient to access his own medical records on-demand and at any time. This includes access to lab results, scheduling an appointment, and receiving updates from his health care provider. The patient can also contact his provider directly with any questions or concerns that he may have without having to wait for the provider's office to open. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that the use of information technology can empower the patient to be more involved with the delivery of his health care.

Mobile Technology

• Mobility is promoted with technology.

  Health information technology includes the use of mobile systems such as hand-held devices. The health care industry is adopting mobile technology and new applications. If a health care provider uses a hand-held device, such as a smart phone or personal digital assistant, the provider can have access a variety of health information without being restricted to an office or a desk. This supports real-time clinical consults, real-time patient charting and streamlined processing of information, all of which are goals of health information technology.

Reduced Waste

• Transmitting data electronically reduces paper consumption.

  Health information technology reduces waste while improving the flow of information. In many cases it is not necessary to print copies of the patient's entire medical record. Many systems allow for on-ine viewing thereby reducing printing and copying expenses while saving paper and ink resources. Information technology can also facilitate timely electronic medical claim processing with greater claim accuracy. Electronic insurance claim submission for reimbursement can have a reduced turn-around time and less paperwork.

Quality Improvement

• Health information technology supports quality improvement.

  Quality improvement in the delivery and outcome of health care is supported by health information technology. This is demonstrated through the use of evidence based guidelines and performance indicator outcomes. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality notes that health information technology can be viewed as a triad of efforts. This includes health information technology, quality of care, and evidence based medicine. This triad improves the delivery of care and subsequently leads to improved outcomes. This contributes to overall improvements in the health care system.

Error Reduction

• Bar code systems help to reduce medicine errors.

  Errors in health care receive significant attention. As reported by Doolan and Bates, health information technology can be used to reduce errors. For example, computerized physician order entry systems assist in reducing medication related errors. This technology supports the physician when ordering medicine. Such programs are designed to ensure that the physician orders the correct medication and correct dose for the correct patient. At the bedside, medication errors can be reduced when a nurse uses a bar-code scanning system. Reduced errors contribute to improvements in health care delivery that ultimately supports better patient outcomes.