Call for Papers:

The challenges facing the information quality community within a medical context are immense as the tools which collect, process, and use the healthcare-related data are in a constant state of flux. If one considers the drivers and challenges surrounding the technological (e.g. continuous advancements in the digital utilisation), the commercial (a hodgepodge of individual providers) and finally information and communication standards (with a lack of or maturity of) then the realisation of an effective quality based information system for healthcare seems very far away indeed. For example, it was reported that between 44,000 and 98,000 deaths occur annually as a consequence of medical errors within American hospitals alone (Kohn et al. 1999).

“A window of opportunity remains for healthcare to follow other high risk industries in establishing basic safety” (Stelfox et al. 2006) to help improve overall patient care. However if one takes into account the unique operational practices within each healthcare institute and the archetypal resistance to change in adopting new and emerging medical devices and associated practices (Roback et al. 2007) then the challenge for all parties concerned is enormous. Many will agree with Grossman’s recent statements: “The struggle to improve the
quality of care is, at best, at a standstill” (Grossman, 2008)

Over the years, advancements have been made on a number of fronts, for example through wireless sensor networks (Baker et al. 2007), tele-home care (Johnston, B, et al. 2000) and clinical decision support systems (Johnston, M.E., et al. 1994) among others. The objective of this JDIQ special issue: Information Quality the Challenges and Opportunities in Healthcare Systems and Services, is to solicit high quality papers which contribute to the continued advancement of healthcare delivery. This special issue will provide a global forum for presenting authoritative references, academic/industry rigorous research and case studies in both theoretical development and applied research.