Sistemas de información en el sector salud en Colombia.

Objective: Characterizing and evaluating information systems on the health sector in Colombia. Methodology: A conceptual frame that included the legal context of the country and organization of information systems in other countries was developed. Later on, Colombian health information system was characterized starting on interviews with important actors and papers. Finally, the organization of the system, information flows and its strengths and weaknesses were analyzed in order to propose some recommendations. Results and conclusions: information system of the Colombian health sector is divided and evidencing quality issues, as in other countries. The development of a production, diffusion and use of information culture is essential. We must take advantage of the change that is occurring in the health system for improving the information. Capture mechanisms for information require a simplification and standardization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]