About Health Information Technology in San Francisco, California

Health information technology, involving the introduction of electronic records into the management of patient care, has become an increasingly important aspect of health care delivery. In San Francisco both patients and clinicians will benefit from new investments in health information technology.

Benefits and Risks

• The benefits of adopting health information technology into modern practice positively impact clinicians and their patients through increased information sharing among health stakeholders. While electronic health records and new technology raise privacy risks, the chosen software is built specifically for the concerns of the patient.

Updates

• Although many private facilities have already invested substantially in health information technology, government-funded hospitals and clinics have faced implementation struggles due to lack of funding. As of November 2010, the San Francisco Department of Health will roll out electronic health records to 800 physicians. And as of 2010, the city of San Francisco is also the recipient of grants through an infusion of cash from the administration of President Barack Obama.

Significance

• The significance of these 2010 investments into the San Francisco Bay area is important not only for patients and clinicians but also the local economy. This funding and these investments will create new jobs in the area.