The language of health informatics - Essay Example

of uniform terminology, coding and standardization of the data; and
4) various information standards and organizations that may be applicable, and possibly required, for this project. 

 Several types of databases can be used in informatics. According to Crawford (2010), there are five types of databases that can be used in informatics: flat file databases, hierarchical databases, network databases, object orientated databases, and relational databases (p. 1). Database characteristics should be such, that, when employed throughout the hospitals and various centers, make sense for that center.

For example, it doesn’t make much sense if one organization is using a flat file database when what it really needs is a program that addresses hierarchical management techniques. If the idea or end goal is to have uniformity, then the same databases should ideally be chosen in order to manage everything. This will ensure that all of the organizations within the scope of the project are working in coordination with one another. There are several types of medical data. According to Types of Medical Data (2010), there is “narrative textual data (HPI, social/family Hx, general review of systems, failure to thrive); numerical measurements (lab results, vital signs, and measurements); recorded signals (e.g., ECG, graphical tracing); and pictures (e.g., radiologic images, sketches)” (p. 1). How all of this information is entered into the computer depends, again, upon the program(s) that will be used.

As such, it might be a good idea for the committee to vote on which type of program(s) they would like to see implemented when given a choice amongst programs, given the information they will be given about the field of informatics. Obviously, whatever information that is inputted into the system must be standardized. In that sense, whatever program that is chosen by the committee should be chosen carefully and with national and international standards in mind