Implementation of a managed care information system for the Military Health System (MHS)

The Department of Defense (DoD) Corporate Executive Information System (CEIS) is a tri-service medical information management system. It functions to integrate data to support decision support and executive information requirements across the Military Health System (MHS). Its goal is to provide accurate, timely, useful information to facility commanders, TRICARE lead agents, major commands, the Surgeons General and Health Affairs staffs. The design principle utilizes commercial software for data mining, decision support and executive information components. DoD-wide CEIS implementation is nearing completion, and evidence is emerging that CEIS is a powerful tool for fostering organizational change and supporting the strategic goals of the MHS. A case study is presented that demonstrates the application of CEIS in data-driven decision support and the role and benefits of a decision support team in facilitating cultural transformation within the delivery of health care. This article broadens the understanding of the impact that a major automated information system can have on organizational behavior and cultural transformation.