Managing information: the role of decision support systems

This paper defines the role of a decision support system in managing information within a hospital environment. It discusses the use of such a system as a catalyst for change in the clinical as well as financial management of patient cases. A case study highlights one hospital's use of a decision support system. The paper concludes with a discussion of the patient care uses of a decision support system in measuring quality and clinical outcomes, tracking resource utilization, predicting utilization, and setting standards and protocols.