Ch 5 - Technology & Its Effects Flashcards
Health Technology
The application of organized knowledge and skills in the form of devices, medicines, vaccines, procedures and systems developed to solve a health problem and improve QOL.
Medical Technology
Subset of Health Technology
Encompasses a wide range of healthcare products used to diagnose, monitor or treat medical conditions.
The practical application of the scientific body of knowledge to improve the delivery of medical care.
Information Technology
The application of computers and telecommunication equipment to store, transmit, receive, and manipulate data
Main categories:
Clinical information systems - supports pt care delivery (EHR, telemedicine, physician order-entry)
Administrative information systems - assist in carrying out financial and administrative support activities (payroll, pt accnts, staff schdls, mtrls mgmnt, budgeting, cost control)
Decision support systems - info and analytical tools to supprt mgmnt decision making (forcast pt volume, staff reqs, financial status, clincial research)
Internet and e-health
Electronic Health Records
Four basic components:
Collection and storage of health information on individual patients
Access to information by authorized users
Knowledge and decision-support to enhance quality, safety, and efficiency
Improvement of health care processes
E-Health
E-health: All forms of electronic health care delivered over the Internet—information, education, products, services
Other applications: Register patients Order pharmaceuticals Physicians can get a head start on hospital rounds Virtual visits
E-therapy: Online interactions between a mental health professional and patient
Effects of Technology
Technology raises consumer expectations and creates increased demand for its use.
It influences the organization and financing of health services.
It has moved the practice of medicine toward specialization.
It has fueled cost escalation.
It has raised complex medical and ethical issues.
