ABSTRACT
Interoperability is a prerequisite for health information systems (HIS) that will reduce waste of unnecessary costs, errors, delays, and futile repetition. Many previous studies had proposed different approaches in the attempt to solve interoperability challenges. In this paper, we report our experiences in using Health Level 7 (HL7) standard and adopting the Common Gateway Model for exchanging heath data. The benefits and challenges of using standards for data interoperability are also described.
Subject(s)
Health Information Systems/organization & administration , Milk Banks/organization & administration , Organizational Case Studies , British Columbia , Electronic Health Records , Female , Health Information Systems/standards , Health Level Seven , HumansABSTRACT
Cloud computing is a new way of delivering computing resources and services. Many managers and experts believe that it can improve health care services, benefit health care research, and change the face of health information technology. However, as with any innovation, cloud computing should be rigorously evaluated before its widespread adoption. This paper discusses the concept and its current place in health care, and uses 4 aspects (management, technology, security, and legal) to evaluate the opportunities and challenges of this computing model. Strategic planning that could be used by a health organization to determine its direction, strategy, and resource allocation when it has decided to migrate from traditional to cloud-based health services is also discussed.
Subject(s)
Computer Communication Networks/organization & administration , Computers , Consumer Health Information/organization & administration , Information Storage and Retrieval/methods , Public Health Informatics/organization & administration , Systems Integration , Efficiency, Organizational , HumansABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The aim of this article is to propose a new model called Healthcare Lean Six Sigma System that integrates Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to improve workflow in a postanesthesia care unit. METHODS: The methodology of the proposed model is fully described. A postanesthesia care unit case study is also used to demonstrate the benefits of using the Healthcare Lean Six Sigma System model by combining Lean and Six Sigma methodologies together. RESULTS: The new model bridges the service gaps between health care providers and patients, balances the requirements of health care managers, and delivers health care services to patients by taking the benefits of the Lean speed and Six Sigma high-quality principles. CONCLUSIONS: The full benefits of the new model will be realized when applied at both strategic and operational levels. For further research, we will examine how the proposed model is used in different real-world case studies.
