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Evaluation of an SQL model of the HELP patient database
S M Huff1, C L Berthelsen, T A Pryor
1Department of Medical Informatics, LDS Hospital/University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84143.
Proceedings. Symposium on Computer Applications in Medical Care
|January 1, 1991
Summary
A new SQL database model for the HELP patient database offers faster data storage and networking but requires more space than standard HELP utilities, which are better for retrieving clinical reports.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Database Management Systems
- Clinical Data Management
Background:
- The HELP database is a critical system for managing patient health records.
- Evaluating new database models is essential for improving efficiency and functionality.
- Relational database models offer potential advantages in data organization and access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a new SQL (Structured Query Language) database model for the HELP patient database.
- To compare the performance and features of the SQL model against standard HELP utilities.
- To determine the trade-offs between storage, speed, and functionality.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a new HELP patient database model utilizing relational tables.
- Data storage and retrieval testing using both the SQL database and standard HELP utilities.
- Performance benchmarking for data storage efficiency, retrieval speed, and resource utilization.
Main Results:
- The SQL database model demonstrated faster and more efficient data storage compared to standard HELP utilities.
- Standard HELP utilities were faster in retrieving data for typical clinical reports.
- The SQL model required more storage space and had a higher number of physical records.
- The SQL model offers enhanced networking, general reporting, documentation, and indexing capabilities.
Conclusions:
- The SQL database model presents a viable alternative for the HELP patient database, offering significant improvements in data storage efficiency and advanced features.
- Despite higher storage requirements and slower clinical report retrieval, the SQL model's networking and general reporting capabilities provide valuable trade-offs.
- The choice between the SQL model and standard HELP utilities depends on specific clinical and administrative needs, balancing storage, retrieval speed, and advanced functionalities.