Enabling patient-centered communication and care through health information technology

Advances in communication science and developments in health information technology coupled with recent health reform initiatives have created unique opportunities for progressing toward a patient-centered healthcare system in the US. We propose a conceptual framework to describe ways in which patient-centered communication may serve as a critical link in translating health information technology functionality into delivery of patient-centered care. In this context, health information technology may provide the infrastructure for patient-centered communication to enable delivery of patient-centered care. Key aspects of patient-centered communication and health information technology are reviewed and patient-centered care is described as emerging through health information technologyenabled patient-centered communication.