Leadership challenges in clinical and information technology services.

Abstract

Biomedical Instrumentation & Technology 123 Modern computer technology is revolutionizing medical instrumentation. Most medical devices today are computerized and networkable, as traditional means of product development and support fast become outdated. Common platforms with multiple applications, remote support, and standard consumer and commercial operating systems are the norm. Medical product development primarily involves transducers, interfaces, and software. Support staff require new skills to maintain computer-based systems. As computers, robotics, genomics, biotechnology, ecommerce, and e-health assume a greater role in health care, who will manage medical technology in this changed world? Will it be the chief information officers (CIO), clinical engineers, physicians, pharmacists, a team effort, or maybe a new breed of leader? And how will the clinical engineering profession evolve as medical technology continues its rapid change? Although the answers aren’t known yet, several experts in the field will analyze these issues and present success stories during June 1 symposium, entitled Perspectives for Successful Leadership in Clinical and Information Technology Services. The symposium, hosted by the American College of Clinical Engineering, will help kick off AAMI’s Annual Conference and Expo, which will take place from June 1-4 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The daylong symposium will feature perspectives of a CIO, clinical engineer, medical systems manufacturer, information technology security expert, among others. Specific presentations will focus on issues ranging from systems integration and computer security to support strategies for integrated clinical and information technologies and an update on the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). For a schedule, see page 126.