ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in this book. The book reflects on cultural influences on the implementation of an electronic medical record (EMR) in Hawaii Kaiser Permanente. EMR is a generic term for integrated, computer-based, health information systems, accessible at the point of care. A typical EMR will be multifunctional, including an electronic patient health record updated in real time by information inputted at any workstation or other interface connected to a secure network. There have been relatively few studies of benefits of information technology (IT) innovations in healthcare of any kind. A clearer understanding of the value of IT innovations is essential to inform diffusion of information technology in current healthcare environment. The book presents the findings in respondents' own words by liberal used of verbatim extracts from the interviews. Semi-structured audio-recorded interviews were held with a sample of 26 senior clinicians, managers and EMR project team members in Hawaii.
