THE ROLE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN HEALTHCARE

Abstract

Information Technology (IT) has become a fundamental cornerstone of modern healthcare, reshaping the delivery of medical, administrative, and patient-centric services. This research paper examines key areas where IT impacts healthcare, including electronic health records, telemedicine, clinical decision support, wearable and remote monitoring devices, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence. The paper reviews the documented benefits of IT adoption—such as improved care coordination, diagnostic accuracy, and operational efficiency—as well as persistent challenges, including data security, interoperability, costs, and the digital divide. Based on secondary sources and industry reports, the paper concludes that while IT has led to measurable improvements in health outcomes and system efficiency, realizing its full potential depends on overcoming regulatory, ethical, and infrastructural barriers. Recommendations are presented for policymakers, healthcare institutions, and technology developers aiming to maximize the benefits of health IT while mitigating its risks.