Peripheral Inflammatory Biomarkers vs. Suicide Risk in Major Depression (2025 Study)
Introduction Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex, heterogeneous psychiatric condition often accompanied by increased risk for suicidal behavior. Understanding biological markers that can predict or elucidate suicide risk is a high priority in psychiatry. Over the past decade, research has increasingly focused on the role of immune dysregulation, particularly peripheral inflammatory biomarkers, in depression […]
Is Health IT Ready for Social Determinants of Health-Focused Clinical Decision Support
Introduction Healthcare is increasingly recognizing that health outcomes are influenced not only by biological factors and clinical care but also by social determinants of health (SDOH)—the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These social factors include socioeconomic status, education, neighborhood and physical environment, employment, social support networks, and access to […]
Updated Insights on Hospital Leaders’ Perceptions of Information Blocking
Introduction In recent years, the landscape of healthcare data exchange has become a focal point of policy, technology, and ethical debates. Central to these discussions is information blocking, defined broadly as practices that interfere with the access, exchange, or use of electronic health information (EHI), even when such practices are not explicitly prohibited by law. […]
Looking Forward: HTI-2 & ONC’s Commitment to Furthering the Vision of Better Health Enabled by Data
Introduction The landscape of healthcare is undergoing a transformative shift driven by advancements in health data technology and a collective commitment to improving health outcomes. Central to this evolution is the vision articulated by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), which […]
Advancing Nationwide, Trusted Health Information Networks
Introduction In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and a proliferation of digital information, the importance of trusted health information networks has never been more critical. These networks serve as the backbone for disseminating accurate, timely, and reliable health data to a diverse array of stakeholders, including healthcare providers, patients, policymakers, researchers, and the […]
Anti-clotting drugs: Not as good as angioplasty?
When it comes to treating coronary artery disease (CAD) and related heart conditions, both anti-clotting medications and angioplasty are vital tools. However, they serve different purposes, and their effectiveness depends on the specific clinical scenario. Understanding the Treatments Anti-Clotting Drugs (Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents) Purpose:These medications prevent the formation of blood clots that can block […]
Electronic Health Records (EHR)s Now Permitted By CLIA
Introduction The landscape of healthcare regulation is continually evolving to meet the demands of technological innovation, patient safety, and efficient clinical workflows. One of the pivotal developments in recent years has been the recognition and permitting of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to be utilized within the framework of CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) regulations. Historically, […]
Key Step Toward Nationwide Health Information Exchange
Introduction The healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, policy reforms, and the increasing demand for coordinated, high-quality patient care. Central to this transformation is the concept of Health Information Exchange (HIE)—the electronic movement of health-related information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards. A nationwide health information exchange aims to facilitate seamless, […]
Health IT Challenges and the Future of Healthcare
Introduction The rapid advancement of health information technology (Health IT) has fundamentally transformed the landscape of healthcare delivery worldwide. From electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine to artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, innovative digital solutions promise to enhance patient outcomes, improve efficiency, and foster personalized medicine. However, the journey toward a fully integrated, patient-centric digital […]