Health Information Technology Leadership

Health information technology is transforming the delivery of healthcare. From inventory management to new staff responsibilities, the adoption of health information technology presents new challenges and opportunities for leaders.

Background

• Technology influences health care.

  Health information technology is the use of technology to support the delivery of health care in any health care setting. This includes hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory care settings. The topic of health information technology is expansive and touches on every aspect of health care. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services notes that without information technology, the delivery of quality health care would be impaired. This includes all types of health information technology, ranging from administration support to clinical practices to infrastructure. The need for effective leadership is critical in supporting the integration, use and adoption of technology.

Change

• Mentoring can reduce stress.

  The implementation and use of health information technology can by stressful for any health care provider. This is especially true when the provider is not comfortable using technology. Health care providers traditionally enter the health care field to provide patient care and to help sick or injured patients. The addition of technology, such as new software or new hardware, can be overwhelming. As with any change, the leaders that are involved with health information technology need to be proactive supporting staff. Support can be provided through a variety of means, including one-on-one training, mentoring and in-services. Leaders that fail to support staff may encounter decreased employee morale, reduced job satisfaction, and increased staff turnover. Any of these factors can impact care.

Industry Developments

• The leaders of health information technology must remain up to date on health care industry trends. The leader must be attentive to the general operations within the health care delivery system, including advances in technology. As noted on Healthcare Technology Online, leaders will need to monitor trends in the overall adoption of electronic medical records, cost containment efforts including savings through the implementation of technology, and the use technology to promote patient safety.

Economics

• Health information technology leaders influence the economics of the health care system. For example, the Lewin Group created the Health Information Technology Leadership Panel Final Report. In the report it is noted that ambulatory care settings could save $112 billion through the adoption of electronic health records. Health care cost savings and improved efficiency through the adoption of information technology receives significant attention. To be effective in influencing economics, leaders will need to continually review print and electronic updates in an effort to be current on developing health care and technology trends. Leaders will also need to consult with other health care subject matter experts to ensure that they have the most contemporary information on available technological resources.

Regulations

• HIPAA protects patient confidentiality

  The individual with leadership role in health information technology must follow regulations and security policies. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, is a major regulatory guideline that influences the entire health care industry. As noted by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, HIPAA addresses the use and disclosure of protected health information. HIPAA promotes the effective transmission of data, the safety and security of the data that is transmitted, and the assurance that quality care is provided while ensuring that patient level data is being protected. As a leader in health care information, the individual in the leadership role is frequently held accountable for ensuring that HIPAA standards are followed. Breaches in HIPAA have various consequences, depending on the nature and severity of the incident.