Electronic patient records: domain message information model perinatology

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Healthcare Information Management

Background:

• The Netherlands is establishing national domain information models to standardize electronic information exchange and electronic patient records (EPR).
• These models are crucial for the development, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of EPR systems within Dutch healthcare.
• This study focuses on the modeling process for a pilot project in mother- and childcare, specifically perinatology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the modeling process for perinatology using the Health Level 7 version 3 Reference Information Model (HL7 RIM).
• To develop domain information models that support the EPR and electronic information exchange in Dutch healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Health Level 7 version 3 Reference Information Model (HL7 RIM) as the core methodology and toolset.
• Modeled 'cases' within the perinatology domain.

Main Results:

• Developed detailed descriptions of care processes, communication, and information, presented in interaction and information tables.
• Created several domain information models for perinatology, enabling healthcare professionals to recognize their communication, content, and workflows.
• The models currently serve as a basis for discussion and critique among clinicians and informaticians.

Conclusions:

• The perinatology domain information models provide sufficient detail for EPR developers and message exchange developers, facilitating implementation.
• Initial project results are valuable, even with the ongoing finalization of the HL7 RIM modeling methodology.
• The approach effectively integrates professional content, technical message implementation, and future EPR development.