This 2010 winner of MLA's Eliot Prize will help you grasp the fundamentals of a rapidly emerging field and includes discussion of the history, role, and infrastructure of medical informatics as well as its impact on access to medical information and the culture and quality of medical care. From data and information processing to database management, telecommunications and networks, computer-aided instruction, and special technologies like wearable computers, you'll find thorough information on medical knowledge and the use of information technology tools in the health sciences. All major arenas--including nursing, pharmaceutical, dental, public health, hospital, and veterinary informatics--are considered in detail.