The Promise of Health Information Technology: Improving the Quality and Cost-Effectiveness of Patient Care in Colorado

Advances in information technology have made it possible to implement a virtual network of clinical information on a statewide basis. The particular character of this connectivity and the amount of information being shared on such a network should be determined based on the needs and characteristics of the diverse communities of the state. The time frame and pathway to achieving this connectivity must be negotiated based on community readiness, shared leadership, resources,and collaborative partnerships.