Table 1 Palliative care EMR design criteria
From: Novel open-source electronic medical records system for palliative care in low-resource settings
Database functionalities: | Technical specifications: |
|---|---|
Patient Tracking: | Open-source: |
- Assign a unique identification number to each patient | - Allow for use and adoption of database with all PCs running Windows XP SP 2 or higher |
- Unified interface for demographic information and appointment tracking | - Post database for download online |
Program Development: | Minimize Textual Input: |
- Include ability to track community health worker data, when applicable | - Use check-boxes, drop-down menus, and radio buttons whenever possible to increase input speed |
- Allow for tracking of training sessions for community health workers | |
Data Aggregation: | Minimize File Size: |
- Compile data regarding symptoms, diagnoses, management, and treatments (all services provided) for a given time frame (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually) | - Database file automatically compresses when opening and closing |
Generate Report: | Streamlined User Interface: |
- Allow user to generate a comprehensive report of unit’s activities during a specified time period | - Straightforward order of information input |
- Design report in alignment with Malawi Ministry of Health Guidelines | - Consistency in navigation between pages |
- Track medication usage |