Health Information System

Health information system (HIS) is a discipline and practice in health care that incorporates the use of information science and technology in general. According to Lippeveld (2000), health information system is a combination of health information from various sources through use of information and communication methods and derives information regarding health care, health status, and provision of health services. He further notes that health information systems’ tools include not only the computers but also the formal medical guidelines, clinical guidelines, and information and communications systems in general. Just like most disciplines and practices, health information systems are bound to be subject of certain factors and trends. Discussed here are three major factors which have the most significant influence on today’s health information systems initiatives. They include; financial resources factors, information policies factors, and human resources factors AbouZahr & Boerma (2005). Financial resources factor in HIS entails all the investments mobilized and used for the production of health information such as collection of data, dissemination and analysis. It is a very influencing factor in today’s HIS because it determines how the ability and efficiency of health institutions in implementing the HIS policies. The second factor is information policies which simply refer to the existing regulatory and legislative framework relating to HIS for both the private and public health care providers. This factor influences today’s HIS as it determines the operationalization of HIS; the scope and limitations in regard to providing the healthcare services to the clients. Lastly, human resource factor influences majorly today’s HIS initiatives. As AbouZahr & Boerma (2005) observe, human resources in HIS means the adequately trained personnel who are capable of handling the HIS initiatives appropriately hence achieving its intended goal(s). It greatly influences HIS initiatives as it determines the ability of health institutions in application of these initiatives; if there are no competent personnel then the initiative is likely to fail or meet its goals.