A computerized follow-up system for hemoccult screening programs

Prior to the development of the CSFS, the logistics of hemoccult stool screening required many hours of clerical and secretarial time. In order to conduct multiple county, multiple location screening programs, the CSFS has been developed as a specialized application of the Roswell Park Management System (RPMIS). CSFS uses the RPMIS for formatted video data entry and editing and for report production. This system makes it possible to generate forms and letters for all patients and physicians by typing a single command. The computer output also includes cross checks for errors and updating reminders. Using non-computerized methods, 363 patients required 157 hours. The most recent 74 patients screened required less than two hours. This significant streamlining of the workload will allow for more effective utilization of this currently available screening test.