The dream of a national health information technology infrastructure

Abstract

Transformation of the US health sector requires a multipronged approach, but a modernized health information technology infrastructure is central to any comprehensive strategy. The Affordable Care Act was preceded by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) act, which helped lay an essential foundation by accelerating adoption and meaningful use of electronic health records. The linkage of technology and payment reform is powerfully synergistic. Communities across the country are actively leveraging opportunities brought about by HITECH and the ACA to improve health, improve care, and improve affordability of care.