Technology has proven effectiveness in speed of information transmission, which leads to prompt healthcare service delivery, prompt treatment of illnesses and better health outcomes. Policies drive the success of health technology through practice standardization. However, cost, safety and security, ethics, and legality have all been target areas of health technology policies. In a minimum of 250 words, discuss the following:
Define health technology policy.
What are some key terms in health information technology? List and define two.
What organizations safeguard health policies? List at least two organizations and a policy they safeguard.
Provide a brief description of the U.S. Food Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) role in health policy.
Full Answer Section
-
Telehealth: Telehealth is the use of telecommunications technology to provide healthcare services remotely. This can include video conferencing, phone consultations, and mobile health apps. Telehealth can be used to improve access to care for patients who live in rural or underserved areas.
What organizations safeguard health policies? List at least two organizations and a policy they safeguard.
-
Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act: This U.S. law was enacted in 2009 to promote the adoption and meaningful use of HIT. The HITECH Act includes provisions for funding EHRs, providing incentives for providers to use HIT, and establishing standards for EHR data exchange.
-
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): This U.S. law was enacted in 1996 to protect the privacy and security of health information. HIPAA includes provisions for setting standards for the handling of health information, requiring providers to obtain patients' consent before sharing their health information, and establishing penalties for violations of the law.
Provide a brief description of the U.S. Food Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) role in health policy.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a federal agency responsible for protecting public health by regulating food, drugs, medical devices, and tobacco products. The FDA plays a key role in health technology policy by reviewing and approving medical devices and software before they can be marketed and used in the United States. The FDA also has the authority to regulate the use of health information technology, such as EHRs and telehealth systems.
Sample Answer
Define health technology policy.
Health technology policy refers to a set of guidelines and regulations that govern the development, implementation, and use of health information technology (HIT) in healthcare settings. These policies aim to ensure that HIT is used safely, effectively, and ethically to improve patient care outcomes and public health.
What are some key terms in health information technology? List and define two.
-
Electronic health record (EHR): An EHR is a digital version of a patient's medical history, including diagnoses, medications, treatments, and allergies. EHRs can be used to improve patient care by providing providers with a comprehensive view of a patient's medical history.