Health management: The use of information systems and knowledge sharing for the decision making process

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the use of Health Information Systems in the decision-making process by the management from cities located in Southern Bahia, Brazil. A qualitative approach was employed; subjects were 16 secretaries of health. Data were collected through interviews and subject to the content analysis technique; Knowledge Management was used as the theoretical framework. The managers are still beginners in the use of Health Information Systems; several actors are involved in the decision; there is low qualification in Health Information Systems; managements implement innovation, even if incipiently; difficulties happen when a new system is established and because of internet access. It was concluded that Health Information Systems’ use to support knowledge production has not reached yet its full potential; it is suggested that management should promote the strengthening of the information culture and should seek to construct knowledge based on the expertise of different actors for the decision.