A computerized reminder system to increase the use of preventive care for hospitalized patients

Article Abstract:

A computerized system can remind doctors to prescribe preventive treatments for hospital patients. A study of 6,371 hospital patients found that the use of such a system increased the number of patients who receive influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, heparin to prevent blood clots, and aspirin to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Hospitals, Information management, Information services, Hospital patients, Preventive medicine, Medicine, Preventive

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Using information technology to improve the health care of older adults

Article Abstract:

The high burden of illness and frailty common among our growing population of older adults often results in fragmentation of care across providers and health care systems, increasing the complexity and costs of caring for these patients. Information technology offers one way to meet this challenge. Scientists at the Regenstrief Institute have more than a quarter-century of experience in using medical informatics to support clinicians in the day-to-day care of older adults. Their research has progressed through several evolutionary cycles, beginning with the acquisition of relevant data and moving to studies of the most efficient and effective mechanisms that bring information to bear at the time of clinical decision making. Information technology designed with the input of the end user has the greatest promise of changing provider behavior because it balances technological challenges with the cultural context of the practice environment. One topic of active research is information technology to support transitions of care among sites and providers. These transitions place older adults at increased risk for avoidable illness, death, and health care costs. Information systems that improve communication among providers during these transitions have the potential to improve safety and reduce costs.

Aged, Elderly, Medical informatics, Author Abstract

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The promise of computerized feedback systems for diabetes care

Article Abstract:

The use of computer-based feedback systems may prove increasingly valuable in monitoring and treating patients with diabetes. Feedback systems gather appropriate information, determine a course of action, and either independently adjust the system (closed-loop) or request human adjustment (open-loop). Researchers presented an overview of possible and current uses for these systems in managing the care of diabetic patients. Some hospitals or clinics use an open loop system to remind doctors about aspects of each patient's treatment plan, such as routine test reminders, medication levels, or warnings about a patient's specific risk factors. Systems that monitor, store, and transmit glucose test results are available for home use. The potential for a closed-loop artificial pancreas exists but is as yet unavailable.

Usage, Diabetes, Diabetes mellitus, Feedback control systems

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