Informatics

Ongoing advances in technology and an ever-increasing emphasis on data-driven decision making continue to drive the rapid evolution of the health care landscape. In the realm of federal health care, health informatics has emerged as a critical enabler of this transformation, playing a pivotal role in improving patient care, optimizing operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. As we navigate the complexities of modern health care delivery, understanding the current state of health informatics within the federal health care environment is essential for stakeholders aiming to harness its full potential.

Health informaticists are professionals who work at bridging gaps between technology, health care delivery and health data. They play a pivotal role in enhancing health care delivery, quality, patient safety and advocacy. Commonly referred to as clinical informaticists, these professionals come from a variety of both clinical and nonclinical backgrounds, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field. Different clinicians bring different skills and perspectives to the health informaticist role. For example, physicians and nurses offer valuable insights into patient care processes and clinical workflows. Their first-hand experience interacting with and delivering care to patients allows them to identify practical solutions to improve care delivery.

The importance of interoperability standards in electronic health records (EHRs) cannot be overstated. They ensure patient data is shared consistently and accurately, both internally and externally across different health care systems. Interoperability standards also enhance patient safety and quality of care, prevent health information from getting and staying locked in silos and help meet patients where they are.

The lack of interoperability standards may also result in miscommunication among health care providers, duplicated tests, delayed treatments and, ultimately, compromised patient safety. Comprehensive data analysis essential for monitoring public health and developing effective health care policies may also be hindered.