A substantial percentage of health care expenditures derive from administrative inefficiencies that stem from a lack of unifying technology and information systems to manage and operate the health care system. Disparate registration systems within an integrated delivery network (IDN) or duplication in the collection of medical histories are just two of many examples of administrative inefficiencies in an information management infrastructure. However, two major technology advancements are poised to dramatically alter the landscape of the health care information systems (HCIS) industry: the Internet and Web services.
The Internet
The Internet allows health care providers, suppliers and consumers to share information reliably, effectively and securely. Universal availability eliminates barriers at all levels and provides the enabling technology for connecting the health care enterprise within itself and to the outside world.
