A conceptual framework for designing a model health promotion informatic system for improving the health status and quality of life of Americans

This study used a conceptual framework to examine how advanced information systems should be developed and used to improve the health and quality of life of Americans. In this study the problem was defined as the poor lifestyle choices and health habits of Americans. The research problem was defined in terms of how to develop and use a conceptual framework for the design of a system that is based on the best theoretical science, that features the right mix of technologies, and that is sufficiently sophisticated and comprehensive to be able to address the health problem in a highly effective manner. The goal of this study was to produce a design for a model informatic system that could be used as a blue print for the multidisciplinary development teams and researchers who will be working on or evaluating the next generation of health promoting technologies. A mixed-methodology design and the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) model were used to develop the conceptual framework, design the model system, and, in the process, indicate how and why this particular framework and innovative design would be superior to the other products and systems that are on the market today. The recommended state-of-the-art informatic system design is based on the concepts and principles of health promotion and the Transtheoretical model. It was designed so that it would be capable of improving the health status of individuals and reducing the economic burden on organizations and the society as a whole. The discussion covers the void that this framework and design fills as well as the implications of and potential for building and deploying advanced informatic systems on a population-wide basis. The implications of this research for health practitioners, consumers, healthcare providers and agents of care, information systems developers, researchers, and policy makers are reviewed in the discussion. Suggestions for areas of further research are included.