Is particularly important in digital transformation, where organizations rely on robust and scalable information systems to achieve operational efficiency and innovation.
The standards, policies, and procedures that govern how information is managed, shared, and protected.
The hardware, software, networks, databases, and data centers that store, process, and transmit information.
Infostructure or information structure is a term used to refer to all those components of logical design, standards, architectures and data governance on which information systems are built.
The main dimensions of infostructure are the use of standards, interoperability and cybersecurity.
Health care processes require available information to ensure continuity of care, evidence-based decision making and the delivery of services of maximum value to the patient at a lower cost.
In addition to facilitating informed decision making, information and communication technologies (ICT) facilitate communication between patients, healthcare personnel and other actors in the healthcare ecosystem.
Infostructure and the use of HL7® standards allow information resources to be efficiently harnessed so that hospitals and healthcare providers become data factories and intelligent organizations.
HL7 FHIR® (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) is a powerful information standard for the healthcare industry, developed since 2011 by HL7® International (Health Level Seven), which is being adopted intensively by countries, healthcare organizations and IT vendors.
Originally created as an interoperability specification, its use has been extended to other cases such as clinical data repository (CDR) databases, mHealth application development (SMART on FHIR) and data structures for common information models.
It provides an information model that defines the syntax and semantics of 157 resource types or object classes (R5), which have been designed based on HL7 RIM and the 5W pattern, to make it possible to represent, record, exchange and share electronic health records.
Currently, there are hundreds of FHIR® implementation guides, for use in particular contexts and settings such as countries, or health care services (oncology, genomics, laboratory, POCT, International Patient Summary, scheduling, etc).
HL7 FHIR®
adoption accelerates digital transformation and covers multiple dimensions of data governance in healthcare organizations.
HL7 V2®, another healthcare interoperability standard (via electronic messaging), developed since 1994 by the HL7® International organization, is nowadays intensively used to enable data exchange in networks and digital ecosystems within hospitals and care delivery organizations, mainly in communication scenarios with biomedical equipment, laboratory information systems (LIS), cardiovascular (CVIS) and radiology (RIS).
In addition to the HL7® standards, there are other specifications such as ISO/IEEE 11073, openEHR, OMOP, terminologies such as SNOMED, LOINC and integration profiles such as HIE, which can be used harmoniously to design and build the infostructure of a digital health ecosystem.
Human talent can customize infostructure solutions to fit the unique needs of an organization. This includes optimizing systems for performance, security, and cost-efficiency.
Skilled consultants and implementers are adept at troubleshooting and solving complex issues that arise during the implementation phase. They can anticipate challenges and adapt solutions accordingly.
Infostructure implementation often requires changes in organizational processes and workflows. Human talent plays a critical role in guiding teams through these changes, ensuring that employees are trained, and helping them adapt to new systems.
Effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders are essential to align the infostructure with the strategic vision of the organization. Human talent ensures that everyone involved understands the goals and benefits of the new system.
Consultants and implementers with deep knowledge of the organization's culture can ensure that the infostructure is aligned with the company's values and operational style. This alignment increases the likelihood of successful adoption and long-term sustainability.
Experienced professionals can drive innovation by identifying new opportunities for leveraging infostructure to improve business processes, enhance customer experiences, or create new revenue streams.
Post-implementation, human talent is essential for monitoring and continuously improving the infostructure, adapting to new challenges, and integrating emerging technologies.
Skilled professionals ensure that infostructure implementations adhere to industry regulations and standards. They also manage risk by implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive data.
Infostructure projects can be complex, involving multiple technologies and stakeholders. Human talent is vital for managing this complexity, ensuring that all components work together seamlessly and securely.
After implementation, human talent is essential for providing ongoing support, maintenance, and upgrades to the infostructure. They ensure that the system remains up-to-date, secure, and aligned with evolving business needs