What does information technology governance (ITG) manage?

Information technology governance (ITG) primarily focuses on the management and alignment of IT strategy with business goals to ensure that IT investments add value and support the organization's objectives. In the context of healthcare, ITG encompasses the oversight of all information technology investments, which includes planning, implementing, and monitoring IT resources and systems. This governance framework ensures that IT initiatives are effectively managed, risks are mitigated, and resources are used efficiently.

By managing all information technology investments, ITG helps organizations make informed decisions about technology expenditures, prioritization of projects, and resource allocation, ultimately improving operational efficiency and patient care. It also plays a critical role in setting policies and standards for IT usage and ensures that investments already made continue to align with strategic objectives.

While financial transactions, compliance with regulations, and management of patient health records are all important aspects of healthcare operations, they do not encapsulate the broader scope of IT governance. ITG integrates these areas by ensuring that the technology used to manage these aspects is effective and aligned with organizational goals.