PC-based research-oriented clinical information system: a case study of Kuwait

This paper describes the design and application of a clinical information system (CIS) in a tertiary care facility (Kuwait Center for Cancer Control) using low-cost microcomputers (personal computers). The facility focuses on the collection and use of clinical information for prospective application in clinical trials, individual therapy and research. In order to meet this requirement the patient treatment and follow-up system (PTFS) was developed, based on recent database management technology. The exercise demonstrates that low-cost microcomputer systems can be used effectively in meeting the clinical management information and research needs of care facilities. It is anticipated that the application of the system will be replicated on other health care facilities.