Integrated Patient Information System

Despite enormous investments made to implement patient information systems, reports of problems and inadequacies are widespread. Difficulties in access and utilization result from the lack of 1) uniform standards for minimum data sets, 2) open systems architecture, and 3) a system for tracking and updating medical records as patients move through different health care institutions. As a result, duplication of tests and prescribed medications occurs which is not only dangerous to patients, but contributes to soaring health care costs. An innovative approach is necessary to re-engineer the patient information system to achieve an effective, efficient health care system. We will undertake a comprehensive approach to address these problems. Blue Chip will 1) apply information engineering to develop a minimum patient data set to be implemented on a client-server based Relational Database System; 2) design an open system technology based on client-server distributed network information system to solve the data interoperability and systems integration problems; 3) design a uniform patient ID system and data interchange standard to allow vital patient information to be transferred throughout the continuum of care.