Heath information systems
Πληροφοριακά συστήματα στο χώρο της υγείας

Doctoral Thesis
Author
Milioris, Konstantinos
Μηλιώρης, Κωνσταντίνος
Date
2024-07Advisor
Fountas, EvangelosΦούντας, Ευάγγελος
View/ Open
Abstract
Health Information Systems (HIS) have undergone substantial development since its establishment in the mid-20th century. These systems have been crucial in the modernization of healthcare, propelled by technological breakthroughs and the need for streamlined and successful healthcare delivery. This paper examines the past, present, and future of HIS, with a particular emphasis on the difficulties and advantages linked to their adoption and use.
The evolution of Health Information Systems (HIS) can be categorized into distinct phases. The initial phase, spanning the 1960s and 1970s, mostly concentrated on administrative responsibilities. At this stage, the objective of HIS was to transform physical records into digital representations in order to improve efficiency and precision. These initial systems offered basic electronic storage capabilities that reduced the logistical challenges related to paper data. The use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in the 1980s and 1990s represented a notable progress. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) surpassed mere digitization by providing all-encompassing and interoperable systems that seamlessly incorporated a broader spectrum of patient information. During this period, electronic health records (EHRs) advanced from basic digital records to complex systems that facilitated effortless retrieval of patient information across many departments and institutions. This advancement promoted the provision of continuous and integrated healthcare services.
The 2000s placed a strong emphasis on the integration and interconnectedness of many elements. The implementation of policies like the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act in the United States has offered incentives to encourage the adoption of Health Information Systems (HIS), leading to a substantial rise in the utilization of Electronic Health Records (EHRs). During this time, HIS started integrating advanced features like decision support systems, medication warnings, and patient tracking. During the 2010s and beyond, the integration of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolutionized Health Information Systems (HIS) into powerful tools for making clinical decisions. These improvements transformed health information systems (HIS) from being passive data repositories to actively participating in healthcare delivery. Contemporary healthcare information systems now have the ability to anticipate patient decline, customize treatment strategies, and identify upcoming outbreaks using advanced data analysis and machine learning algorithms.
Contemporary Health Information Systems (HIS) are distinguished by their extensive implementation, the goal of achieving interoperability, a strong emphasis on patient-centered treatment, and the application of large-scale data analysis. These systems are now essential elements of healthcare infrastructures worldwide, ranging from rural basic care clinics to large multi-specialty hospitals. The incorporation of Health Information Systems (HIS) into healthcare environments has been propelled by government directives, monetary incentives, and outcomes supported by empirical research. Interoperability is still an essential requirement in the modern environment of Health Information Systems (HIS). Seamless communication and information exchange between multiple systems are crucial for delivering consistent and high-quality treatment. Healthcare Information Systems (HIS) are increasingly utilizing standardized protocols, such as Health Level Seven (HL7) and Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR), to ensure seamless operation across various platforms.
HIS has also played a role in enabling the transition to patient-centered care. By integrating patient portals, telemedicine platforms, and wearable devices with the hospital information system (HIS), patients are empowered to conveniently access their medical records, participate in remote consultations, and monitor their health in real-time. This transition signifies a paradigm shift in healthcare, as individuals assume an active role in their care procedures. The advent of Big Data and AI has brought out both prospects and obstacles for Health Information Systems (HIS). The widespread adoption of digital devices and sensors has resulted in a significant increase of health-related data. Although this data has great potential for enhancing healthcare outcomes, it also poses issues with data security, privacy, and ethical considerations. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States are constantly developing to deal with these intricacies.
This study aims to investigate numerous crucial research inquiries. This study examines the historical evolution of HIS (Health Information Systems) and the significant elements that have shaped their growth. This text delves into the challenges that healthcare organizations have while deploying Health Information Systems (HIS) and analyzes the influence of these systems on clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. The study evaluates the perspectives of healthcare professionals regarding Health Information Systems (HIS) and examines the impact of legal and ethical frameworks on the development and deployment of these systems. The research seeks to gain a thorough comprehension of the complex and diverse dynamics of Health Information Systems (HIS) by analyzing the intricate technology aspects, user behaviors, and the wider healthcare environment. This study employs a quantitative research technique, using structured research instruments and statistical analysis to collect and analyze data from healthcare professionals regarding their experiences and perceptions of Health Information Systems (HIS).
The study provided valuable insights into the development of Health Information Systems (HIS), highlighting the pivotal role of technology progress, the difficulties in attaining interoperability, and the significance of user acceptability and training. Health information systems (HIS) were discovered to have a significant influence on the process of making clinical decisions and the results experienced by patients, especially in settings where there is a high level of acceptability by users. The development of Health Information Systems (HIS) in Greece provides as a case study that mirrors worldwide patterns. The initial endeavors in the late 1980s and 1990s were mostly directed towards administrative systems, which were subsequently succeeded by the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in the 2000s. Greece is currently focusing on using big data and AI to improve healthcare, even though they face obstacles such as economic limits and opposition from healthcare experts.
The results emphasize the need for continuous investment in Health Information Systems (HIS), with a particular emphasis on ensuring interoperability, data security, and user training. Subsequent investigations should investigate the capacity of nascent technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data analytics, to further revolutionize health information systems. To achieve the successful implementation of a Health Information System (HIS), it is necessary to tackle technological, organizational, and ethical obstacles. Health Information Systems play a crucial role in updating healthcare delivery, providing substantial advantages in terms of effectiveness, precision, and patient results. Nevertheless, the effective execution of these initiatives requires a thorough strategy that tackles technical, organizational, and ethical obstacles. This paper offers a comprehensive analysis of the development and influence of Health Information Systems (HIS), providing significant insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers. This research enhances the ongoing discussion on improving healthcare delivery using advanced information systems by examining the historical development, current situation, and future possibilities of HIS.