HPCC and the National Information Infrastructure: an overview

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Informatics
• Computer Science
• Information Science

Background:

• The National Information Infrastructure (NII) is a federal initiative to integrate communication networks, computers, and databases for nationwide information services.
• The High Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program develops advanced technologies, including teraflop computing and gigabit networking, crucial for the NII.
• Healthcare is a key demonstration area for HPCC technologies and a significant application for the NII.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the role of the NII and HPCC Program in advancing information services.
• To highlight the National Library of Medicine's (NLM) participation in HPCC and NII initiatives.
• To showcase specific health-related applications of HPCC technology.

Main Methods:

• The HPCC Program supports national supercomputer centers, the federal Internet, and user-friendly interface software like Mosaic.
• The National Library of Medicine (NLM) facilitates Internet connectivity for healthcare institutions through various programs.
• NLM sponsors health-related HPCC applications, including data sharing networks and telemedicine.

Main Results:

• HPCC technologies enable high-speed computing and networking essential for the NII's success.
• NLM's involvement enhances healthcare access to information services and promotes advanced applications.
• Projects like the 'Visible Human' and telemedicine initiatives demonstrate the practical impact of HPCC in healthcare.

Conclusions:

• The NII and HPCC Program are foundational for modernizing information services across the U.S.
• HPCC technologies, particularly through NLM's efforts, are transforming healthcare delivery and medical training.
• Continued development and application of these technologies promise significant improvements in public services and health outcomes.