What does the term "health informatics" refer to?

The term "health informatics" refers to the use of information technology to manage health data. This encompasses various processes, tools, and systems that enable healthcare professionals to efficiently collect, store, share, and analyze health information. Health informatics plays a crucial role in improving patient care, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting healthcare decision-making by leveraging data in a digital format.

In a health informatics context, information technology can include electronic health records (EHRs), telehealth platforms, data analytics tools, and mobile health applications. These technologies facilitate better communication among healthcare providers and between providers and patients, ensuring that the right information is accessible when needed.

Considering the other options, traditional methods of patient data management, paper-based record keeping, and manual data entry processes do not adequately capture the advancements and capabilities associated with health informatics, which emphasizes the application of information technology to streamline healthcare processes and improve outcomes.