Information technology can curb cost of care

The column "Give Marylanders benefits of health information technology" (Commentary, Aug. 18) provides a real-world look at how our health care system can benefit by making better use of information technology.

While such innovations do require an upfront investment, the long-term benefits in money saved and, more important, in lives saved definitely make up for the initial costs.

According to a study by the Center for Patient Safety, an ongoing e-prescription pilot program prevented more than 700 potential drug errors (interactions and allergies) and saved approximately $630,000 in 2007 alone.

The American College of Cardiology advocated language included in a recent Medicare bill that will make e-prescribing a more common practice.

I am glad to see that members of the Baltimore community see the need for greater use of information technology in health care.

Through electronic medical records and other advances with health information technology, we can prevent errors, provide the latest evidence-based care and save lives.

Dr. Jack LewinWashington

The writer is CEO of the American College of Cardiology.