What Are Health Information Systems?

Information technology is reinventing the health care industry. A 2009 article in the "New York Times" says that the Obama administration's economic recovery package intends to spend $19 billion on accelerating the use of computerized health records in doctors' offices, so that patient care is improved.

Function

• Health information systems are electronic software programs that serve a variety of clinical and administrative functions. Medical offices use health information systems for storing electronic patient records, scheduling patient appointments and setting up patient accounts and payment plan options.

Effects

• Patient care is enhanced with the use of health information systems because electronic documents reduce the risk of medical errors caused by poor penmanship. Also, health information systems increase organization and eliminate the need for medical staff to file paperwork, which reduces their administrative burden.

Benefits

• People do not have to be technology experts to understand how to navigate health information systems. Although some staff training or tutorials are required, these systems are user-friendly and staff can easily access what they need straight from their computers.