Introduction to health informatics (hi): enhancing healthcare through information technology

Abstract

Health informatics (HI) is an interdisciplinary field that integrates data science, information technology, and healthcare to enhance the administration and delivery of healthcare services. It includes the storage, visualization, and analytics of electronic health records, thus assisting in improving patient care, enhancing clinical decision-making, facilitating data exchange, and supporting research and public health initiatives. This chapter provides an overview of the fundamental concepts of HI and its role in reforming the healthcare system. The basic challenges and ethical issues in implementing HI are also examined in this chapter. In addition, glimpses of HI's research and development activities are provided, employing the case study of the COVID-19 pandemic. This chapter would be helpful for beginners as well as healthcare professionals to get acquainted with the principles and applications of HI.