Health Information Technology

The work of hospitals is caring for patients. Every day the women and men of America’s hospitals strive to improve the safety and quality of that care. Research has shown that certain kinds of information technology (IT) – such as computerized physician order entry (CPOE), computerized decision support systems, and bar-coding for medication administration – can limit errors and improve care. IT also can be a tool for improving efficiency. While hospitals have been pioneers in harnessing IT to improve patient care, quality and efficiency, the challenge now is to extend its use and integrate it into the routine care processes in all hospitals, big and small, in both rural and urban areas.