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The computer in general practice
Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
|March 1, 1984
Summary
General practices are increasingly adopting computer systems for information management. Current systems focus on cross-indexing patient data for preventive medicine and administrative planning, with future potential for decision support.
Area of Science:
- General Practice Informatics
- Health Information Systems
- Medical Computing
Background:
- Computer adoption is growing in UK general practices.
- Practices are either installing systems or developing their own.
- Most GPs purchase off-the-shelf solutions, while a few engage in custom design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the evolutionary phases of computer information systems in general practice.
- To detail the capabilities and applications of current cross-indexing systems.
- To identify preconditions for advancing to narrative records and decision support.
Main Methods:
- The study describes a three-phase model for computer information systems: cross-indexing, narrative record, and decision aid.
- Current systems are analyzed at the cross-indexing level.
- The potential benefits and requirements for future phases are discussed.
Main Results:
- Existing computer systems function as cross-indexing tools, improving patient cohort identification.
- These systems support preventive medicine, quality control, administrative and educational planning, and research.
- Manual systems were previously underutilized due to inefficiency and research focus.
Conclusions:
- The current cross-indexing phase offers significant advantages over manual methods.
- Transitioning to narrative records requires standardized data entry (e.g., problem-orientated medical records).
- Successful adoption of advanced systems necessitates physician acceptance of system-guided prompts and reminders.