Abstract:

Electronic health records are one of the keys to modernizing the health system and improving access and outcomes for Canadians" (Romanow, 2002). There are major steps being taken at national, provincial, regional, and organizational levels to increase the implementation of information systems (IS) in the healthcare system. Nationally accessible electronic health records (in the form of panCanadian Electronic Health Records—panCan EHR) are the ultimate goal. The solution called for by the healthcare industry , involves the continuous development, adoption and implementation of healthcare industry vertical standards to enable seamless electronic integration (Infoway, 2004). Adopting such standards seems crucial to the success of such an endeavor even if it requires extensive efforts from all members of the industry. Therefore, this is an excellent opportunity to study the development and diffusion of standards within one specific industry. Our proposed research project is an exploratory case study to better understand the processes taking place as the standards are being adopted and implemented. Our research question is: What are the processes taking place as the Canadian healthcare industry adopts vertical industry standards to achieve interoperability and integration? By taking a socio-technical perspective to answering this question, we will further research on standards adoption and will assist in the development of relevant guidelines to serve the practitioner community in developing and diffusing vertical industry standards.