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This month’s business focus is on technology. However, HIT really transcends the categorization of “business” or “clinical” when you consider the power and functionality that is now available to the healthcare industry to not only revolutionize office functions but also to impact the quality of care provided.

Of course, effectively harnessing that power is another matter all together. Fortunately, technology is becoming more and more affordable and user friendly, which is leading to higher rates of adoption. As Tom Doub of the Centerstone Research Institute pointed out in his contributed article on page 22, technology has proven to be invaluable in times of crisis. The recent flooding in the Midwest ruined many paper records, but hospitals and clinics with digital storage still have access to vital patient information.

In addition to increased affordability, adoption rates are improving as many of us are overcoming our technophobia. What was once viewed as intimidating is now seen as accommodating. Just look at the number of daily Internet hits on any given topic. As a society, we’ve become very dependent on instant information. Patsy Brown underscores the importance of good online communication in this month’s Administrator’s Corner.

For Nashville Medical News, continually enhancing our online offerings and functionality is key to maintaining the type of two-way relationship we want to have with our readers. Whether it’s nominating a deserving professional for one of our spotlight features or posting opinions on hot topics, we’re excited readers are using the “My Medical News” button to share ideas.

Since July 2007, www.nashvillemedicalnews.com has nearly tripled the number of unique visitors and hits. In these past 12 months, we’ve received nearly a million hits and had 93,000 unique visits. Clearly, this impressive growth indicates a significant number of our 10,000 physicians, clinicians and healthcare executives who receive the print version are also utilizing our Web site and referring it to others.

While not a consumer publication, we are also aware that search engines direct those outside of our industry to the site. Our editorial staff is pleased to deliver information that is accurate, accessible and understandable. We sincerely hope our clinical content spurs important conversations between patients and providers.

Although today’s technology is certainly impressive, we are always mindful that it is the human touch that truly makes a difference. Our staff was saddened by the recent death of Monroe Carell, Jr. His generosity of spirit and financial resources has touched countless lives. Through the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, his unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality of care to the youngest patients is certainly a fitting legacy.



Pam Mark Hall

Publisher

Nashville Medical News

publisher@nashvillemedicalnews.com



July 2008

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