are used in and around the provision of health care services. Technology “tools” have been
introduced at an increasing rate during the past 100 years and include the use of techniques,
instruments, materials, systems, facilities, and information. Of all the factors and resources
that will shape the future of the health of humankind, the one that most often stretches the
imagination is medical technology. However, medical technology is often blamed for contributing
to the escalation of health care costs without receiving recognition for improving
access to the system and the quality and efficiency of the system