Scheduling systems: protocols and punishments

Quote of the week

What should happen to someone who manipulated the VA hospitals’ scheduling system? Should they lose their job?
(asked by Senator Johnny Isaakson)

"I don't know whether that's the appropriate level of punishment or not."

- Robert Petzel, Honorable Undersecretary of Health

Healthcare and Twitter

If you've been watching the news, you've seen a kind of grass-roots approach to politics in the recent proliferation of "town hall meetings" on healthcare. Rather than just a platform for lawmakers to describe their positions, these are advertised as forums for discussion. Healthcare is a perfect topic as it resonates with so many people on different levels, especially the notion of adopting a federal "one-payer" system, but the number of people taking the time to attend an open meeting in August is still remarkable.

With the new hyperindividualism of the web, especially the rise of social networking sites, we think differently about who's listening. Just a few short years ago, there was much more "rational indifference" to this part of the political process. Showing up at the polls or watching a primary debate were still a duty and privilege, but with no expectation that your voice would stand out from the buzz. Enter Twitter, where you can have anywhere from hundreds to hundreds of thousands (in short order if you're @Oprah) listening in at a given moment to whatever you can fit into 140 characters or less.

It isn't even that surprising that if we stand up at one of these meetings it may show up on youtube or even national news the next day. (Jewel thieves in London this week burst out onto the street and were immediately being recorded on cell phones of passers-by.) Better get used to it. Everyone gets their ten minutes of fame - anytime.

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Just how important is a smart healthcare IT executive?

Not many issues approach the universal concern over the healthcare situation (crisis?) in this country.  The changing role of the CIO at a hospital or other health service provider seemed like a great topic for a few questions.  

So I asked Patrick Moroney, who is among the best authorities out there in this area, for his candid opinions.  Here's the interview with Patrick that came out in TechRepublic today.  (Add your comment and/or vote if you like it.)

Thanks!