Question

How did the integration of healthcare systems affect the development of computer networks in healthcare organizations?

Distinguish between an interfaced system and an integrated system. Provide at least one example of each. Comment on why one model may provide an advantage over the other.

Answer 1

Integration of healthcare systems affect the development of computer networks in healthcare organizations in a positive manner. This has brought technology closer to the healthcare establishments and patient care has become more advanced and better. Earlier computer networks worked distinctly from each other and did not have coordination as such. But after healthcare system integration, computer networks are connected and work in coordination with each other having seamless transfer of data. This has made life easier for the healthcare establishments and customer service has also improved.

Interfaced system is limited to sharing of information between different components of a computer network such as hardware and software. It is not concerned with exchange of information between different computer networks. In contrast integrated system is sharing of information between different computer networks and connected systems which allow seamless transfer of data. Example of interface system is a desktop or laptop installed in a healthcare facility which can access information stored within itself without access to other information. Example of integrated system is a network of desktops or laptops connected through LAN or internet which share information among themselves and can access multiple information. Integrated system has an edge over interface system since it can access a lot of information and can use it for providing better patient care and upgraded technology.