J Korean Soc Med Inform.  2009 Sep;15(3):255-263.

Analysis of the Types of e-Business of the Healthcare Information Provision Service on the Internet

• Kim J
• Lee S
• Kim S

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To define the healthcare information industry in order to propose a developmental direction for the industry, classify and analyze the healthcare information industry business models, and propose strategic guidelines for development of the healthcare information industry.
METHODS
A survey was conducted to investigate the private companies that provide healthcare information. For in-depth investigation of the study subjects, they were categorized based on their means of service provision. Open colloquium participation requests were extended to the representative companies, and five open-colloquiums were held. Additional data were obtained through a structured questionnaire investigating the problems and complaints, followed by a discussion on strategies and future plans.
RESULTS
Through a review of previous research on internet business model classification, four major model classification systems were chosen and the healthcare information business models were classified. Based on the composite opinions derived from the participating companies, policy guidelines were proposed.
CONCLUSION
It is important to cooperate with experts from each field under governmental supervision and help the general public appreciate the value of healthcare information, thereby achieving the industrialization and development of the health information provision business.

Keyword

Internet Health Information; Healthcare Contents; Business Model

MeSH Terms

Commerce
Delivery of Health Care
Internet
Organization and Administration
Surveys and Questionnaires
Industrial Development

Figure

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  Figure 1 Healthcare information provision business model investigation process.

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