Case study of virtual collaboration in health informatics research

The purpose of this study was to explore how Health Informatics research collaboration among Trainees and Mentors in the CHPSTP was mediated by information and communication technologies. Using qualitative methods, a purposive sample of fifteen CHPSTP Trainees and Mentors who participated in the CHPSTP-Virtual Community were interviewed. Results of the study indicate that the CHPSTP has been considered a growing success and through the use of technology has enabled a national Health Informatics Community of Practice to develop, function and grow. As a consequence, Health Informatics researchers have enhanced opportunities to collaborate and increase their HI network, as well as increased research and training capacity.