What is a primary aim of health information technology?

The primary aim of health information technology is to optimize the management and sharing of health data. This encompasses the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs), health information exchanges (HIEs), and various healthcare applications that facilitate better communication among providers, improve patient care, and enhance the overall efficiency of healthcare systems. By streamlining data management and improving access to critical health information, health information technology plays a vital role in supporting clinical decision-making, reducing errors, and ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

In contrast, increasing paperwork would be counterproductive to the goals of health information technology, which seeks to minimize administrative burden. The aim is not to eliminate the need for patient care, as healthcare services are fundamentally focused on patient outcomes. Furthermore, while data storage solutions are important, focusing exclusively on this aspect overlooks the broader objectives of interoperability, data accessibility, and the effective use of health information for improving patient care and public health.