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A medical information networking system between practitioners and academia.
P A Jennett1, I J Parboosingh, W R Maes
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta.
The Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions
|December 10, 1989
Summary
Rural practitioners used an information networking system (MIS) to submit clinical questions. This system identified practice needs, informing continuing medical education (CME) and curriculum development for enhanced physician competence.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Continuing Medical Education
- Rural Health
Background:
- Rural practitioners face unique challenges in accessing timely clinical information.
- Maintaining physician competence requires ongoing education and support tailored to practice needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a one-year experience with an information networking system (MIS) connecting rural practitioners to an academic center.
- To determine how physician-inquiries can inform continuing medical education (CME) and curriculum development.
Main Methods:
- 47 rural practitioners submitted clinical questions via a telephone answering service over one year.
- Inquiries were classified by ICD-9-CM and practice areas (diagnostic, treatment, pharmacology).
- Data informed CME program planning, curriculum development, individualized CME, and research.
Main Results:
- 240 physician inquiries were received, triggered by diverse clinical and professional encounters.
- Inquiries reflected genuine needs in rural medical practice.
- The system successfully identified specific areas for CME and curriculum enhancement.
Conclusions:
- Physician-generated questions are a valuable resource for identifying practice gaps and informing CME.
- Information networking systems can effectively support the maintenance of physician competence in rural settings.
- Prioritizing these identified needs is crucial for effective medical education and practice improvement.