A Snapshot of e-Healthcare in the US and Implications for its Development in Japan

Abstract

E-healthcare involves the use of asynchronous communications and information technology to improve the effectiveness of healthcare delivery, healthcare administration, and access to healthcare information by consumers. This article used results of a literature search, news reports, and company information to compile a “picture” of the status of e-healthcare today in the US, and then analyze its potential for future adoption in Japan. Historically, administrative healthcare functions were the first to be revolutionized by information technology. Subsequently, Internet use caused an explosion of new e-health websites. Today, e-health tools are growing in use by all three major stakeholders in healthcare: payers, providers, and patients. Three areas of intense activity in e-health in the US are e-visits, e-prescribing or computer processed order entry (CPOE), and e-disease management. Each has been shown to reduce costs and errors, and improve the effectiveness of care delivered. Japan's healthcare system shares many similarities with the US, and should accrue similar benefit from the use of e-health tools. Current solutions to satisfy concerns regarding security and quality of information in the US, such as third party accreditation and government regulation, will likely alleviate similar concerns in Japan.