Requirements in the medical domain: Experiences and prescriptions

Research shows that information flow in health care systems is inefficient and prone to error. Data is lost, and physicians must repeat tests and examinations because the results are unavailable at the right place and time. Cases of erroneous medication - resulting from misinterpreted, misunderstood, or missing information - are well known and have caused serious health problems and even death. We strongly believe that through effective use of information technology, we can improve both the quality and efficiency of the health sector's work. Introducing a new system might shift power from old to young, from doctor to nurse, or from medical staff to administration. Few people appreciate loss of power, but even fewer will admit that the loss of power is why they resist the new system. Thus, we must work hard to bring this into the open and help people realize that a new system doesn't have to threaten their positions. Again, knowledge and understanding of a hospital's organizational structure, both official and hidden, is necessary if the system's introduction is to be successful.