Knowledge representation for platform-independent structured reporting

Structured reporting systems allow health care providers to record observations using predetermined data elements and formats. We present a generalized language, based on the Standard Generalized Markup Language (SGML), for platform-independent structured reporting. DRML (Data-entry and Report Markup Language) specifies hierarchically organized concepts to be included in data-entry forms and reports. DRML documents serve as the knowledge base for SPIDER, a reporting system that uses the World Wide Web as its data-entry medium. SPIDER generates platform-independent documents that incorporate familiar data-entry objects such as text windows, checkboxes, and radio buttons. From the data entered on these forms, SPIDER uses its knowledge base to generate outline-format textual reports, and creates datasets for analysis of aggregate results. DRML allows knowledge engineers to design a wide variety of clinical reports and survey instruments.