What’s for Me versus What’s for IT?

Abstract This chapter explores the professional boundaries between clinical and information technology (IT) roles in health and social care, clarifying where clinicians’ responsibilities for digital technologies begin and end. It examines digital functions most central to clinical roles, including the use of electronic health records, clinical decision support, documentation, and communication systems. These are contrasted with the responsibilities of IT professionals, such as infrastructure management, security, integration, and technical support. The chapter highlights the need for close collaboration between clinical and IT teams and considers how leadership positions—including Chief Clinical Information Officer and Chief Information Officer—shape the strategic direction of digital practice. It also reviews the emergence of specialist clinical informatics roles, such as Chief Nursing Information Officer, Chief Pharmacy Information Officer, and Chief Allied Health Professions Information Officer, and explores models for developing multidisciplinary informatics teams that reduce duplication and strengthen collaboration. Drawing on practical examples and maintaining a user-centred focus, the chapter underscores the importance of digital skills development for clinicians, while recognising the foundational role of IT colleagues in supporting safe, efficient, and effective systems.