Achieving a "therapeutic dose" of IT.

Our health systems face a number of critical challenges over the next several decades, not the least of which is the aging of our baby boomers. Many have suggested that information technologies will be an essential tool, which will increase health system productivity and in so doing will help us manage our way through these challenging times. Unfortunately, little evidence exists supporting the hypothesis that IT creates productivity gains in any sector, let alone health. This paper reviews the "Productivity Paradox" and the challenges associated with measuring the effects that IT may have on health system productivity, and proposes potential directions for new work