Clinician use of a pediatric cardiology database on a microcomputer

A pediatric cardiology database was designed and implemented on a microcomputer using the MEDUS/A (Harvard School of Public Health) database management system. This database has potential utility in the areas of clinical research, patient management, and administration. Initial uses of the system include a study of ventricular septal defects, and automation of pacemaker clinic and cardiac catheterization laboratory records. Clinicians with little or no programming experience can alter the database structure and tailor complicated applications to their particular needs. Preliminary evaluation of the system is presented.