According to the foreword, what is a key element in pursuing 'meaningful use' of health information technology?

A key element is the extent to which health professionals understand and embrace the role of health IT systems in their work, while also appreciating their limitations and the need for ongoing research and innovation.

The foreword explicitly identifies this understanding and embracing as a key element in pursuing meaningful use. It frames health professionals' grasp of the systems' role in practice, along with recognition of their limits and the continued need for research, as central to meaningful use.