Taxonomies of Medical Informatics
Five models impose order upon the discipline of medical informatics, with both models 1 and 2 placing systems development at the apex. The third, using the Lindberg model, adds competency as the context of classification. Model 5 bears some similarity to model 4. They are are follows:
- Applications Model (van Bemmel) .
This model moves from the least complex applications (communications, recording) to the most complex (pattern recognition, modelling). The van Bemmel applications levels are: (1) communications and telematics, (2) storage and retrieval, (3) processing and automation, (4) diagnosis and decision making, (5) therapy and control, and (6) research and development. This model also portrays the amount of human involvement. From Level 1 to Level 6 human involvement and intervention in the process increase, as levels of complexity increase.
- Knowledge and Skill Levels (Lindberg) .
This models moves from the least complex skill level (computer literacy) to the most complex (building specialized programs). This model emphasizes using technology for independent, self-directed learning, and decision-making. The Lindberg skill levels are: (1) Computer literacy, (2) Independent learning, (3) Minimal personal skills, (4) Knowledgeable consumer, (5) See new applications, (6) Build a system for one's applications, (7) Tool building.
- Competency Model (Ball - University of Maryland) .
This model moves from the minimum competency level (corresponding to Lindberg levels 1,2, and 3) to school- or profession-specific competency (corresponding to Lindberg level 4), to informatics specialist/researcher competency (corresponding to Lindberg levels 5, 6, 7).
- Tower of Achievement Model (Friedman) .
Friedman suggests looking at creative works in medical informatics through his "tower of achievement" (see figure below). Creative outputs fall within each level of the tower. The different levels from lowest to highest are: (1) model formulation, (2) systems development, (3) systems installation, and (4) study of effects.
- Building Blocks Model (Wigertz - Linkoeping University, Sweden)
This model (see figure below) is used in the teaching of medical informatics to biomedical engineering students. Medical informatics is presented as a set of building blocks describing important subjects within the science. It also shows the dynamics within the field.
