In June 2006, SHIRE launched a campaign addressing the health information technology (HIT) revolution and its impact on health disparities in communities of color. SHIRE’s first public statement on these issues occurred June 6 at a conference sponsored by the Health Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS). SHIRE distributed a press release and fact sheet and Ruth Perot, executive director, participated on panel on the topic: “Leave No Community Behind: Ensuring HIT Access in Underserved Communities.”

In late June, SHIRE raised the urgent need for community inclusion in national HIT planning the 1st Nationwide Health Information Network Forum on functional requirements. (“Statement for the Record”) Two weeks later, SHIRE convened a HIT Action Alert Roundtable, attended by HIT professionals, congressional staff, academics, health providers, association representatives and community advocates to examine “Health Disparities in Communities of Color: The HIT Connection.” (Roundtable agenda, HIT Roundtable photos and list of participants.)

Two weeks later, Dr. Russell Davis, SHIRE’s president, testified before the Consumer Empowerment Workgroup under the auspices of the Office of the National Coordinator for HIT. (click view testimony) He cited recent studies (click HIT and Health Disparities and Health Inequalities and Compunetics) that described HIT’s potential for closing or widening health gaps. Davis also identified potential barriers, opportunities and made recommendations (click to veiw stand-alone model) that underscored the importance of inclusion of all consumers in all aspects of HIT. In addition, SHIRE has offered principles and proposals for members of Congress to consider as they crafted HIT legislation.

Look for updates on HIT-related activities of SHIRE and its partners on our website!