Informatics in Healthcare: Using Data to Promote Early Cancer Detection and Surveillance

I selected this paper for Competency A, as it demonstrates that health outcomes can be improved by harnessing technology, in this case, Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Data and informatics play multiple roles in healthcare, from confidentiality and security to utilizing tools for diagnosing and assessing diseases and mapping the human genome. Data use has revolutionized how medical professionals diagnose, treat, and interact with their patients and modernized administrative systems. My research topic in INFM 200 explores the potential of using GIS data to create comprehensive cancer risk assessments and develop public health awareness programs targeted at specific population groups to help them understand their risks and screening options. With the advancements in genomic testing and our increasing understanding of social risk factors contributing to cancer, it seems crucial to consider community data revealing higher cancer rates in crafting personalized risk statistics. In addition to individual risk assessment, incorporating community risk assessment data would enable public health agencies and medical facilities better to promote health screenings and prevention strategies to the public. Researchers and physicians currently use informatics tools to determine cancer risk and treatment plans (Informatics Tools | Informatics Technology for Cancer Research (ITCR), n.d.).  By employing GIS software to identify communities at higher risk, public health programs can effectively target populations with increased risk through screening campaigns, public health initiatives, and programs focused on modifying social habits, thus using technology to improve healthcare.  

Technology in Project Management 

I selected this paper from INFM 205 for Competency A, as understanding how technology is used in project management is crucial; it provides the context for today's tools and techniques. Tracing the evolution of best practices, for example, Gantt charts and the Critical Path Method (CPM), underscores the continuous development of project management techniques. The advent of technology has revolutionized project management through collaborative tools like Slack and Teams, which facilitate seamless communication and real-time project updates within teams, regardless of their location. Project management tools utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with automation tasks, resource allocation, risk prediction, and progress monitoring (Shaping the Future of Project Management with AI, n.d.). The benefits of technology in project management are evident, with increased efficiency, improved communication and collaboration, enhanced risk management, better resource allocation, and greater stakeholder engagement. Technology is not just changing how we manage projects, it is revolutionizing it. The tools and solutions it offers are not just nice-to-haves but essential for enhancing efficiency and productivity. 

INFM 210 - Health Informatics Blog Post 1 

I chose to submit this blog post written for the INFM 210 course as evidence for Competency A.  In the digital age, technology has fundamentally changed how users glean health information and interact with each other.  After receiving a cancer diagnosis, it becomes crucial to seek accurate and reliable health information. To understand the information-seeking habits of users, it is essential to conduct user research, whether through interviews or surveys. For my blog assignment, I designed a survey to capture sources of information, user demographics, and the amount of time invested in learning about a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding their preferred sources of information is crucial in informatics and can stimulate the development of mobile applications and websites to provide targeted information to patients. The benefits for patients are substantial. Access to accurate, easily accessible information can reduce anxiety as well as arm patients to make fully informed decisions. Understanding treatment options and potential side effects can increase compliance with treatment plans, leading to improved treatment adherence.  We can significantly improve access to quality, personalized healthcare information for cancer patients by employing user research and leveraging health informatics. This empowerment allows them to navigate their diagnosis with the most current information, ultimately contributing to better healthcare outcomes.

While my focus is in health informatics, technology is powerful, and informatics is an indispensable component that drives progress across all industries. The evidence I showcased here is a small selection from three different courses, which demonstrate a diverse and applicable knowledge of how technology and informatics can improve processes and research, drive innovation, and improve health outcomes. 

Informatics Needs and Challenges in Cancer Research. (2012). In National Academies Press eBooks (p. 32). https://doi.org/10.17226/13425

Informatics Tools | Informatics Technology for Cancer Research (ITCR). (n.d.). Itcr.cancer.gov. https://itcr.cancer.gov/informatics-tools

Shaping the Future of Project Management with AI. (n.d.). https://www.pmi.org/learning/thought-leadership/ai-impact/shaping-the-future-of-project-management-with-ai