A Chief Information Officer (CIO) is an executive-level position responsible for a company’s information technology (IT) organization. Chief Information Officers direct an organization’s overall IT strategy, ensuring that it aligns with the company’s goals and objectives.
The responsibilities of this role vary depending on the organization. In most cases, a CIO will delegate day-to-day operations to an IT Director. The CIO will then work closely with the rest of the company’s executives to ensure the company’s overall IT strategy streamlines operations and improves efficiency.
The Role of the CIO in Healthcare
Within healthcare organizations, the role of the CIO is similar to that of any other company. However, there are some specific concerns for a CIO in a healthcare IT (HIT) environment. These include:
Data privacy and security: A HIT CIO is responsible for ensuring patient data is secure and in compliance with healthcare regulations like HIPAA. This may manifest in maintaining high-level security protocols and training staff on information security best practices.
Innovative solutions: A HIT CIO must be knowledgeable on emerging technologies and innovations in the healthcare industry. Priority will be given to systems that improve patient care, streamline operations, and reduce costs.
Infrastructure: As medical software like electronic health record (EHR) systems is used by a large number of employees — potentially across multiple locations — extra attention is given to network connectivity and remote access. A robust IT infrastructure is needed to ensure smooth daily operations.
CIOs and the HITECH Act
Since the passage of the HITECH Act in 2009, Chief Information Officers have overseen the implementation of EHR systems and other medical software. The HITECH Act introduced the “meaningful use” program from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which incentivized the adoption of standardized HIT systems.
In the years since, Meaningful Use has been superseded by CMS’s Medicare Promoting Interoperability program. This has further incentivized CIOs to implement systems that allow for the free and open exchange of healthcare data.
How TempDev Can Help Chief Information Officers
TempDev's team of NextGen consultants, developers, and trainers can support your needs whether you're looking to implement, switch, or even upgrade your current EHR system. From dashboards and revenue cycle consulting to automation and workflow redesign, TempDev offers the tools you need to make the most of your NextGen EHR system, with top tips and tricks that will ensure your success now and in the future.
Using TempDev's NextGen dashboards, templates, and reports, you can better support your patients. Our team will help you design and implement your system based on industry best practices.
Contact us here or call us at 888.TEMP.DEV to get the help your CIO needs for their HIT strategies.
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