This project will provide a starting point for understanding the current and potential role of information networking technology in the governance, management and member service aims of rural health networks. Through document review and semi-structured telephone interviews of key informants within rural health networks, the project will address research questions which cover the following: the use and importance of information networking technology; drivers and barriers to developing information network systems; the role of information networking technology in the operation of a network as an organization; and the provision of information networking services in support of administrative, clinical and educational functions of the network.

Publications

• Information Technology and Rural Health Networks: An Overview of Network Practices
  RUPRI Center for Rural Health Policy Analysis
  Date: 05/2004
  This paper focuses on the use of information technology in rural health networks, based on detailed interviews with representatives for 15 rural health networks that received funding from the federal Rural Health Network Development Grant program.