Title: Information systems for healthcare: a conceptual framework for improving decision making through better information, not technology

Authors: Kevin J. Leonard, George Pink, Lina M. Johnson, Ellen G. Schraa

Addresses: Department of Health Administration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, McMurrich Bldg, 2nd Floor, 12 Queen's Park Crescent West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada. Department of Health Administration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, McMurrich Bldg, 2nd Floor, 12 Queen's Park Crescent West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada. Department of Health Administration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, McMurrich Bldg, 2nd Floor, 12 Queen's Park Crescent West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada. Department of Health Administration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, McMurrich Bldg, 2nd Floor, 12 Queen's Park Crescent West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada

Abstract: The theory of Information Systems (IS) concentrates on getting the right information at the right time in the right format to the right user. The development of information systems, therefore, requires focus on organisational objectives, design and dynamics as much as it requires focus on the procurement of the most appropriate hardware and software. Today, the concentration on issues pertaining to computer-based information systems (CBIS) is often incorrectly emphasised. Computers play an integral role in the development and operation of information systems. However, the computer-related functions should be primarily supporting (to the information systems strategic objectives) in nature. The essence of the ||systems analysis|| should focus on the root of the problem, which is the need for information. Supplemental discussion, only then, should concentrate on the computer-related issues, i.e., the type of software and the specific hardware that is needed.

Keywords: computer systems; information theory; average length of stay; statistical analysis; systems analysis; effective information display.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHTM.2000.001099

International Journal of Healthcare Technology and Management, 2000 Vol.2 No.5/6, pp.557-575

Published online: 30 Jun 2003 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article