September 14, 2026
WHEREAS, health information technology (health IT) plays a vital role in improving the quality, safety and efficiency of health care delivery, empowering patients and enhancing the overall health of communities; and,
WHEREAS, health IT enables the secure exchange of health information across the state and the nation, supports clinical decision-making, and fosters innovation in medical research, telemedicine and personalized care; and,
WHEREAS, the integration of health IT has proven to be a cornerstone in addressing public health challenges, improving access to care, reducing disparities and advancing health equity; and,
WHEREAS, health IT professionals, developers, clinicians, policymakers and advocates work tirelessly to design, implement and optimize technologies that improve patient outcomes and streamline health care operations; and,
WHEREAS, Health IT Week serves as an opportunity to recognize the transformative impact of technology in health care and to celebrate the collaboration between health care providers, social care providers, technology innovators, researchers and patients; and,
WHEREAS, the continued investment in health IT infrastructure, education and innovation is essential to achieving a more connected, efficient and patient-centered health care system; and,
WHEREAS, the continued expansion of health information with community-based organizations, community information exchange will leverage health IT to strengthen whole-person care and address the social drivers of health, and,
WHEREAS, rapid advances in the development and deployment of innovative technologies including artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital therapeutics, mobile health and telehealth provide great opportunities to transform health care access, delivery and outcomes; and,
WHEREAS, these transformative innovations will require increased health IT governance by clinicians and policymakers, ,as well as increased education for and adoption by the entire health care workforce; and,
WHEREAS, expanding health care information technologies and services across all areas of the state, through programs such as the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment Program and the Rural Health Transformation Program and through the modernization of tribal health care and veterans’ health systems, will strengthen health care interoperability, improve access and enhance outcomes for all residents;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 14-18, 2026, as Health IT week in Michigan. Health IT week is a time to celebrate the achievements of health IT in transforming health care delivery, recognize the contributions of health IT professionals and partners, promote awareness of the importance of health IT in improving health outcomes, and encourage continued collaboration and innovation in health IT. We call upon health care organizations, health professionals, health professions education institutions, policymakers, technology leaders and communities to join in observing Health IT Week with activities, events and initiatives that highlight the critical role of information technology in advancing health and well-being.
