Microsoft said today it's buying a software program that collects and displays a wide variety of patient data, including routine clinical information, X-rays and other imaging scans. The acquisition of Azyxxi (say that three times fast ... or just once, if you can) moves the company further into the healthcare information technology sector.

The program, based on Microsoft technology, was developed by doctors at Washington, D.C., Hospital Center and first used in the emergency department there 10 years ago. It's designed to give doctors immediate access to a patient's records -- gathered from disparate systems -- to reduce delays in making decisions about care.

Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Azyxxi's creators and about 40 employees from Washington Hospital will join Microsoft and continue working on the product. They will be part of Microsoft's new healthcare group, led by Peter Neupert, who reports to Craig Mundie, chief research and strategy officer. Neupert is a former CEO of drugstore.com. Check out this story for more on Microsoft's efforts in healthcare.

In addition, Microsoft said it is partnering with MedStar Health, Washington Hospital's parent, to develop new features for Azyxxi.