Abstract:This book covers the knowledge necessary to understand healthcare information technology (HIT) and HIT management. It explores areas for basic awareness or competency, including hardware, software, and communication systems; operational, management, and clinical applications; and selection, implementation, and valuation. This revised edition includes coverage of: forces that will drive future change and potentially have profound impacts on HIT; the role that government policy and healthcare reform play in influencing HIT; HIT governance and strategic planning in healthcare organizations; an overview of an information system and possible configurations that will support clinical service delivery and the associated business processes; key operational and tactical processes that are critical to maximizing HIT efficiencies and effectiveness; EHR applications and financial applications; and the major techniques used to evaluate an HIT investment.