title: Unravelling the tangled taxonomies of health informatics.
abstract: Even though informatics is a term used commonly in healthcare, it can be a confusing and disengaging one. Many definitions exist in the literature, and attempts have been made to develop a clear taxonomy. Despite this, informatics is still a term that lacks clarity in both its scope and the classification of sub-terms that it encompasses. This paper reviews the importance of an agreed taxonomy and explores the challenges of establishing exactly what is meant by health informatics (HI). It reviews what a taxonomy should do, summarises previous attempts at categorising and organising HI and suggests the elements to consider when seeking to develop a system of classification. The paper does not provide all the answers, but it does clarify the questions. By plotting a path towards a taxonomy of HI, it will be possible to enhance understanding and optimise the benefits of embracing technology in clinical practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Care, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, UK, HU6 7RX. d.i.barrett@hull.ac.uk.
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Barrett
authors.affiliation: General Practice, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
authors.forename: S T
authors.initials: ST
authors.lastname: Liaw
authors.affiliation: Primary Care & Clinical Informatics, Department of Health Care Management & Policy, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7PX, UK.
authors.forename: Simon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: de Lusignan
mesh_terms: D002965:Classification; D006801:Humans; D008490:Medical Informatics / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D018875:Vocabulary, Controlled