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Utilizing RxNorm to support practical computing applications: capturing medication history in live electronic health
1Department of Informatics, Centerstone Research Institute, Nashville, TN 37208, USA. Casey.Bennett@CenterstoneResearch.org
Journal of Biomedical Informatics
|March 20, 2012
Summary
Standardized medication terminology RxNorm (RxNorm) successfully captured electronic health record (EHR) data in a large behavioral healthcare system. Adaptations improved speed and flexibility for practical EHR applications.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Clinical Terminology
- Electronic Health Records
Background:
- Accurate medication history is crucial for patient care.
- Standardized terminologies like RxNorm aim to improve data interoperability.
- Challenges exist in integrating complex terminologies into live EHR systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of using RxNorm for direct medication data capture in a live EHR.
- To evaluate RxNorm's functionality and identify necessary adaptations for practical clinical use.
- To understand how standardized terminologies can support computing applications in healthcare.
Main Methods:
- Implemented RxNorm for direct medication history capture in a large, multi-state behavioral healthcare provider's EHR.
- Incorporated auto-complete search and dosage identification assistance.
- Evaluated the implementation using flexibility, speed, data integrity, and medication coverage.
Main Results:
- RxNorm proved functional for direct medication data capture in a live EHR setting.
- Adaptations were necessary to meet high-speed input/output requirements and data entry flexibility.
- The system served over 75,000 patients annually across 130 locations.
Conclusions:
- RxNorm can be effectively utilized for practical EHR applications with appropriate system modifications.
- Optimizing search functionality and linking RxNorm to drug classifications can enhance EHR medication data utility.
- Further research can improve user experience and the overall value of medication data in EHRs.
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