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This systematic literature review seeks to collate the evidence of the evolution of the role of healthcare information systems (HIS) executive in the United States (US) and to identify the significant events which have influenced the development of this role and its impact on the transformation of healthcare organizations. The HIS executive has evolved over time from the manager responsible for in-house computers, advanced data processing (ADP), communication systems, and system conversions to a participatory member of the executive leadership team responsible for delivering technology solutions which transform the delivery of healthcare. The changes in the responsibilities and the attributes of HIS executives have been driven by changes in technology, standardization of clinical data, government regulation, and the ever-changing reimbursement and business environment. The responsibilities and titles of the HIS executive will evolve and adapt as the business environment and the expectations of consumers and payers change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health services marketing executives must learn to dissuade consumers from the usage of specific health services as capitation becomes the preferred form of payment management. These organizations provide preventative medical services at all times for no fee and utilize cost-sharing provisions for more expensive procedures in order to discourage unnecessary use. Access limitations can also prevent over-utilization of expensive medical services.

Several letters to the editor are presented in response to articles in previous issues including "Direct-to-Consumer Advertising of Prescription Drugs," by James Williams and Paul Hensel in the spring 1995 issue, "Demarketing Inappropriate Health Care Consumption," by Gurprit Kindra and D. Wayne Taylor in the summer 1995 issue, and "Complaint Intensity and Health Care Services," by Arthur L. Dolinsky in the summer 1995 issue.