Systems Thinking
University of Phoenix
Systems Thinking in Health Care Environments MHA/505
Introduction
The concept of Systems Thinking within an organization can be defined as using a
microscope to go through, analyze, and reevaluating the process in which you do things. As we
evolve in the technology world, our systems should evolve as well to help maintain and improve
the function of that organization. The creation of new computer programs and systems makes the
practice of Health Care a constant revolving circle. One of the many new changes within the
Mental Health field requires providers to register and be approved for North Carolina’s Health
Information Exchange (HIE). This system allows various types of Health Care providers ranging
from Nurses, Pharmacies, Doctors, etc. to access and share vital medical information pertaining
to the continuum of patient care. Due to HIE being a complete computer-based system, it
provides more accurate patient information and the ability to share it with minimal lag time.
Concepts of Systems Thinking
The concepts of systems thinking can best be described as a method in which you would
assist someone in viewing systems extensive viewpoint. This viewpoint should include the
overall composition in systems as opposed to viewing things one-sided. Everything within a
system must have a purpose. Once the overall purpose has been determined, you must ensure any
new changes to this system will coincide well with what is already in place.
Difference Between Systems Thinking and Silo Thinking