“The application of information processing involving both computer hardware and software that deals with the storage, retrieval, sharing, and use of health care information, data, and knowledge for communication and decision making,” according to the definition of healthcare information technology (HIT).

From simple charting to more advanced decision assistance and interaction with medical technology, health information technology encompasses a wide range of technologies. Reducing human errors, enhancing clinical outcomes, increasing care coordination, boosting practice efficiencies, and collecting data over time are just some of the ways that health information technology can help improve and revolutionize healthcare. With varied degrees of evidence about the impact of health information technology on patient safety, the development and implementation of health information technology has accelerated.