Realising the value proposition for healthcare by incorporating KM strategies and data mining techniques with the use of information and communication technologies

Abstract

Data permeate all areas of healthcare and permit the appropriate delivery of the correct services at the right time for each patient at the point of care. The application of internet-based ICTs (Information Communication Technologies) to healthcare is a necessary but not sufficient solution to address today's healthcare challenges. To improve access and quality, and thereby realise the value proposition for healthcare, healthcare organisations must maximise the data and information generated by them and which flow through these ICTs. This goal can be reached by embracing the techniques of Data Mining (DM) and the strategies of Knowledge Management (KM). When coupled with evidence-based medicine, and the introduction of various internet-based ICTs such as electronic medical record systems and e-health initiatives, KM and DM create strategic imperatives for healthcare organisations to maximise both the clinical and administrative benefits from their application of internet-based information and communication technologies to healthcare.