Related Experiment Videos
Computerized medical records and clinic function
J R Campbell1, N Givner, C B Seelig
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln.
M.D. Computing : Computers in Medical Practice
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Computerized information systems like COSTAR improved clinic efficiency for nurses and clerical staff but not for residents. Staff found COSTAR records more accessible, though resident use led to longer wait times.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Clinical Information Systems
- Ambulatory Care
Background:
- Formal studies on computerized information systems in ambulatory care are limited.
- Evaluating the impact of such systems on clinic operations is crucial for adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of the COSTAR (Computer-Stored Ophthalmology சிகிச்சை) system on clinic function.
- To compare the usability and impact of computerized records versus conventional records.
Main Methods:
- A teaching clinic was divided into a study group using COSTAR and a control group using conventional records.
- Nurses and clerical staff's attitudes towards computerization were surveyed.
- Detailed time studies analyzed patient flow and staff workload.
Main Results:
- Nurses and clerical personnel accepted COSTAR, preferring it for improved information accessibility, especially for telephone management.
- Residents did not become proficient COSTAR users due to infrequent clinic sessions.
- COSTAR use by residents increased their workload and patient waiting times.
Conclusions:
- Computerized medical records can enhance efficiency for non-physician clinic staff.
- Physician adoption and proficiency remain challenges in implementing electronic health records in ambulatory settings.
- The benefits for support staff may outweigh the challenges faced by residents in specific clinic environments.