Managing the knowledge interdependence with electronic medical record

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of the paper is the study of information systems as mechanisms to manage existing and widespread knowledge in health care organizations; this is a platform that supports the processes of communication and knowledge sharing. The paper seeks to focus on the electronic medical record (EMR) as a tool to manage the integration of knowledge and operational information among health care through the coordination of the interdependencies.Design/methodology/approachThe paper develops a methodology characterized by a mixed theoretical and analyzing the key documents on the context and literature on health information systems and an empirical part based on the use of semi‐structured interviews and questionnaires to the working group responsible for the project “medical records”.FindingsThe contributions of research can be found in the descriptive analysis obtained by the process of implementation of integrated medical records (IMRs) within the structures investigated. This can lead to highlight possible areas for improvement in the management of the construction and operation of the EMR.Originality/valueThe originality lies in the possibility of verifying the conditions of effective integration of knowledge to manage health problems, through the use of IMR as a mechanism for additional information. Possible value added is the description and encoding of knowledge available within the health departments.