Taking the Pulse on Health IT Exports

Recently I had the pleasure of hosting a roundtable to discuss opportunities and challenges relating to the export of Health Information Technology (Health IT) products and services. This emerging sector is one of several that are important for the success of the National Export Initiative, announced by President Obama in February 2010 with the goal of doubling exports in five years.

Held in conjunction with the Manufacturing & Services unit of the International Trade Administration and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT, our roundtable featured dynamic conversations among a broad array of industry leaders, including representatives from healthcare providers, software and hardware vendors, and consulting firms.

Together we addressed opportunities in this rapidly globalizing sector that embraces a wide array of participants and can benefit from innovation both at home and abroad. The discussion was focused on three primary topics: 1) barriers to increased exports; 2) HIT services and international partnerships; and 3) standards and interoperability. Input provided by the group was helpful in identifying current and potential future obstacles and ensuring that our domestic innovation is informed by the reality of global markets.

Along with my co-hosts Assistant Secretary of Commerce Nicole Lamb-Hale and National Coordinator for Health IT Farzad Mostashari, I would like to personally thank the talented health, technology, and professional services representatives who took time out from their schedules to ensure that our Health IT sector remains competitive both at home and abroad.