Archaeology of Medical Records: An Overview
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- Category: Vol. 91, December 2023
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Archaeology of Medical Records: An Overview
Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore the historical develop-ment and contemporary significance of data formats in shaping modern healthcare practices, drawing on insights from Fou-cauldian archaeology and media archaeology. Through an in-terdisciplinary approach, we investigate the evolution of health informatics from the early 20th century to the present day, fo-cusing on the interplay between clinical care, public health, and health insurance. Our methodology involves a critical analysis of primary sources, including historical texts and theoretical frameworks, to trace the trajectory of data formats within med-ical practice. By synthesizing insights from Foucault’s work on the archaeology of medicine and Hacking’s notion of historical ontology, we uncover the deep-seated influence of data technol-ogies on the organization and delivery of healthcare services. The results of our analysis reveal the intricate relationship be-tween data formats and institutional priorities within healthcare systems. From the structured collection of medical data dur- ing epidemics to the formalization of health insurance records and the subsequent development of clinical medical records, data formats emerge as key mediators of medical knowledge production and institutional governance. Moreover, our inves-tigation highlights the concept of “grafting” as a lens through which to understand the layered nature of technological devel-opment in healthcare. By examining how new data systems are integrated onto existing frameworks, influenced by historical contingencies and institutional imperatives, we shed light on the interconnectedness of past and present in shaping contem-porary healthcare practices. In conclusion, this study under-scores the importance of historical and technological considera-tions in understanding the role of data formats in healthcare. By elucidating the historical roots and contemporary implications of data formats, we provide valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and researchers seeking to leverage da-ta-driven approaches to improve health outcomes and enhance patient-centered care.