Database Research

[1] “One of the technology terms that most people have become accustomed to hearing either at work or while surfing the Internet is the database. The database used to be an extremely technical term, however with the rise of computer systems and information technology throughout our culture, the database has become a household term.

The definition of a database is a structured collection of records or data that is stored in a computer system. In order for a database to be truly functional, it must not only store large amounts of records well, but be accessed easily. In addition, new information and changes should also be fairly easy to input. In order to have a highly efficient database system, you need to incorporate a program that manages the queries and information stored on the system. This is usually referred to as DBMS or a Database Management System. Besides these features, all databases that are created should be built with high data integrity and the ability to recover data if hardware fails.” 

[2] “In simple terms, a single database system is great for individual needs such as organizing files for the home, documenting doctor’s or dentist’s visits, creating a daily schedule to keep track of everything on your To-Do list, remembering special occasions, etc.” [3] “The generation, collection management and reporting of data are the primary function so of each information system within the HIS. Each function is addressed by the organizations integrated information system. For example, to meet the billing and regulatory requirements for an outpatient visits, the following data are captured and communicated. To accomplish these functions, and HIS includes components that support patient registration, scheduling, charge capture, clinical documentation and billing. In some cases, manual forms track patients through portions of their visit and then data are subjected to batch data entry at a later time to complete a database.”

The paragon McKesson HIS system contains these components. The advantages of the registration system includes the ability of the system to retain historic information and allow the fields to be manipulated with changes in demographic information, etc.

The major disadvantage is the search function. Exact information must be entered or the patient’s information will not be found . This causes a major duplication of records. Also, the registration application is not fully integrated with the other components of the system. An enhancement would certainly be to have all the applications that make up the Paragon HIS “talk” to each other. The company is trying to improve their competitive edge by applying these enhancements to their software, however with the onset of “meaningful use”, all production to the HIS has been on hold and their concentration lies with Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE).

[1] “Database” http://www.tech-faq.com/what-is-a-database.html

[2] “Database” http://www.databaseguides.com/what-is-a-database

[3] Englebardt, Sheila P & Nelson, Ramona (2004) Health Care Informatics: An Interdisciplinary Approach , 151