THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH RECOGNIZES NOVEMBER 2-8 AS NATIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY WEEK

TALLAHASSEE − The Florida Department of Health (DOH) recognizes November 2-8 as National Health Information and Technology Week. The theme of this year’s celebration is “The Strength of Technology, the Power of Care.” This annual event recognizes the work of health information management professionals and health information technology staff who maintain and protect the health information of Floridians.

Health information managers and health information technology staff work to provide individuals with better health treatment choices and improved knowledge which enhances communications between patients and their personal health team.

The health care industry has made a commitment to improve the quality and safety of patient care by managing health information through the use of technology. Technology has demonstrated the ability to reduce medical errors by promoting electronic systems that contain accurate information and can be available when needed by the patient and health care team.

“Accurate and timely health information is essential to provide effective management and quality, cost-efficient care to the public,” said State Surgeon General Ana M. Viamonte Ros, M.D., M.P.H. “As the health care industry moves toward the electronic health information age, the roles of the health information management and technology teams become more critical.”

DOH recognizes those individuals working in the fields of health information management and technology for their commitment to quality care, patient safety and the efficient delivery of health care to the consumer. The technology and exchange of health information improves when information is accurate, timely and available where and when it is needed.

The health information management team ensures that medical information is complete, accurate and confidential. The field of health care could not advance without the safeguards that are provided by these professionals regarding security and confidentiality of individualized health information. They support efficient and cost-effective management of health information to Florida’s residents and visitors.

The health information technology team works to provide timely electronic access to health information and ensure accurate, reliable information, which can assist the health care team through the decision support capabilities. The importance of providing access to the health care teams while still ensuring confidentiality is an important balance that must be maintained as electronic systems are developed and enhanced.

As we move from paper to electronic health records, the responsibilities of the health information management team may change, but the challenge is still there to protect the information and ensure that the quality of the information remains accessible when needed by the health care team. Together we will travel the road from paper to electronic format with the goal of improving Florida’s health information, enhancing treatment options and reducing wait times and the cost of health care.

DOH promotes, protects and improves the health of all people in Florida. For more information about DOH programs, visit www.doh.state.fl.us.