Participants felt that it would be easier to implement standards if they are introduced at the grassroots level. As stated previously, education of physicians in ICT use is crucial to the success of an enhanced health infostructure. The knowledge gained from current ICT-based initiatives could form the basis for a national business model for a fully integrated health infostructure. However, it is important to create a model at the regional level, first, to address any shortcomings before launching it on a national basis. All end-users should be involved in this process so that alliances are in place to communicate its advantages, once it is fully developed.
Testing is also crucial.
Physicians and other health care providers must see clearly how the model works in the field, and how ICTs can benefit their patients and practices. Canadians should understand that this business model will not produce the usual short-term return on investment, but that it will yield valuable social and financial results in the long term. Participants in both workshops were keenly aware of the important and timely role they played in promoting the use of ICTs and patient records in Canada's health system. They fully agreed that all stakeholders must be willing to co-operate, to achieve the vision of a fully interdependent, integrated health care system. Browse the list of complete Workshop Reports .