Patient-number-based computerized medical records in Crete. a tool for planning and assessment of primary health care
Isacsson, A.; Koutis, A.D.; Cedervall, M.; Lindholm, L.H.; Lionis, C.D.; Svenninger, K.; Fioretos, M.
Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine 37(1): 41-49
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0169-2607 PMID: 1563266 DOI: 10.1016/0169-2607(92)90027-5Document Number: 319711
The Lund University Health Sciences Centre in Dalby, Sweden and the Department of Family and Social Medicine at the Crete University in Heraklion entered a collaborative agreement in December 1987 which involved the development of a computerized patient information system for primary health care (PHC) in Crete. In 1988, computer programmers installed the case record system "Egin0" on a personal computer at the University of Heraklion and at the health center in Spili, Crete. Based on local needs, this system was improved upon in 1989 which included installation of the Greek statistical System "DoIt". Purposes of the system included assessment of the health needs of the island, monitoring activities of PHC organizations, and introduction of epidemiologic research into PHC in Greece. The Crete and Swedish team successfully established a computer based information system in Spili in only 1 year and was able to analyze data on health care use and cardiovascular risk. The Greek version was more inclusive than the Swedish version because it included dental and preventive. The installed patient information system should allow comparison of date to evaluate new PHC settings in Greece in the future. Further, it should permit analyses of the effect of sociocultural factors on the use of PHC and attitudes and behavior of patients. Health center workers in Spili have continuously assessed the system. Immediate feedback has resulted in identifying needs for training and modifications of procedures. The "Egin0" and "DoIt" systems have also allowed researchers to analyze aggregate data. The success of these systems have resulted in their implementation in other health centers in Crete and other parts of Greece.