Abstract
Even though informatics is a term used commonly in healthcare, it can be a confusing and disengaging one. Many definitions exist in the literature, and attempts have been made to develop a clear taxonomy. Despite this, informatics is still a term that lacks clarity in both its scope and the classification of sub-terms that it encompasses. This paper reviews the importance of an agreed taxonomy and explores the challenges of establishing exactly what is meant by health informatics (HI). It reviews what a taxonomy should do, summarises previous attempts at categorising and organising HI and suggests the elements to consider when seeking to develop a system of classification. The paper does not provide all the answers, but it does clarify the questions. By plotting a path towards a taxonomy of HI, it will be possible to enhance understanding and optimise the benefits of embracing technology in clinical practice.
Highlights
Informatics: a word that conjures up a host of definitions, applications and systems
We struggle to describe to others what health informatics (HI) means for them and what the benefits are to patients, practitioners and organisations
Most are centred on the principle that HI relates to information and communication technologies applied to healthcare to achieve desired outcomes
Summary
Informatics: a word that conjures up a host of definitions, applications and systems. Within healthcare, ‘informatics’ is used as a descriptor in a way that can be confusing and in some cases disengaging.[1] This confusion stems partly from the meaning of the word itself (Box 1), and partly from the plethora of sub-terms, sub-definitions and applications that can be connected to it. The focus of many of these sub-terms is on the technologies used in the delivery of care, providing a conceptual overlap between health information management and health (clinical) informatics. Do machine processes replace human ones, and as a byproduct they produce new information streams. Terms such as digital health, eHealth, mHealth and technology-enabled care are used interchangeably and without any clear boundaries or criteria. We struggle to describe to others what health informatics (HI) means for them and what the benefits are to patients, practitioners and organisations
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