Geographic Information Systems
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can easily be defined as computer software that maps and analyzes geographic or spatially referenced data. However, a GIS can also be defined as:
- An information systems technology that uses digital maps to interpret data.
- A decision-making support tool that displays relationships of data as they exist in the physical world.
- A digital lens for exploring the dynamic connections between people; health and wellbeing; and the changing physical and social environments.
For more information about GIS, click or copy the link into your web browser:
- What is GIS? by Esri - http://youtu.be/a8RhDpuLPl0
- Geospatial Revolution by Penn State Public Broadcasting - http://geospatialrevolution.psu.edu/
Health Geoinformatics
Health informatics refers to computers and computer-based information systems, methods, techniques and theories that support clinical practice and public health.
Health Geoinformatics, a specialized field of health informatics, is a scientific approach to investigate health issues. It combines traditional medical geography, modern automated GIS, and related geospatial technologies (GPS, Satellite Imagery, etc.).
Health Geoinformatics brings an innovative approach to public health by enhancing the wellbeing of human populations through collecting, organizing, managing, analyzing, sharing, and presenting data. Utilizing data in regards to where we live, who we are, and how we live allows us to provide optimal solutions f for the public’s health.