Nursing informatics in Korea.

The use of computers in the Korean healthcare system began in the late 1970s to expedite insurance reimbursements when the national health insurance system was introduced. Their application in nursing came much later because the insurance fee schedule does not include nursing services. This article explores the history and activities of nursing informatics in Korea in professional organization, education, research, clinical practice, and professional outreach. Suggestions are given on meeting the challenges of information technology for nursing in Korea.