Computerized guidelines for preventative care in general practice

Computer-based guidelines for preventative care is an example of the way in which protocols can be put to use in an effective and useful way. However, computerised medical protocols will only be used on a large scale if they are integrated with the computer-based medical record. The AIM-project ISAAC is working on the development of integrated tools for use in Primary Health Care, and especially General Practice. One of the tools under development is prevention. In this article, prevention is used as an example of the implementation of protocols. After a short definition of prevention, the implementation of preventative modules (or protocols) in the ISAAC GP information system is discussed. There are several conditions or critical factors if the implementation of prevention (and protocols) in a GP information system and in a GP practice is to be successful. In the discussion, some of the opportunities that are emerging with the use of information systems and telematics in primary health care are also discussed, together with the potential of ISAAC and the crucial role that must be played by healthcare providers.