What does the acronym HITECH stand for?

HITECH stands for Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health. This legislation was enacted to promote the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology, particularly focusing on the expansion of health information exchange and improving the quality of healthcare through technology. It aims to enhance the healthcare system's efficiency, safety, and effectiveness by utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) and establishing a framework for sharing medical information across different healthcare settings. The emphasis on both economic and clinical health underscores the legislation's goal of ensuring that technology leads to improved health outcomes while also addressing cost-related issues in healthcare delivery. This comprehensive approach is essential for facilitating better patient care and more efficient healthcare operations.