REGIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION-SYSTEMS - APPLYING THE IAIMS MODEL

In general, there is agreement that robust integrated information syst ems are the foundation for building successful regional health care de livery systems. Integrated Advanced Information Management System (IAI MS) institutions that, over the years, have developed strategies for c reating cohesive institutional information systems and services are fi nding that IAIMS strategies work well in the even more complex regiona l environment. The key elements of IAIMS planning are described and le ssons learned are discussed in the context of regional health informat ion systems developed. The challenges of aligning the various informat ion agencies and agendas in support of a regional health information s ystem are complex; however, the potential rewards for health care in q uality, efficacy, and cost savings are enormous.