Overview

A Clinical Information System for Oncology describes a medical information system designed and implemented in a cancer center but with broad applicability to medical practice beyond the cancer center environment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Regarded as forward looking in 1978, the system has the distinction of still being in production. Indeed, its functionality has continued to grow and its technical implementation to evolve with the changing technology over the last decade. The authors detail the functions supported by this unique system, illustrate how it assists in the care process, review its development history, and evaluate its impact on the delivery of care in terms of cost, user satisfaction, and efficacy. Unlike much information technology, the system is an active participant in medical decision making: it includes comprehensive tools for managing and displaying clinical data; automatically produces care plans from protocols; and features unique tools which support the effective use of blood products. Professionals in medical informatics, hospital administrators, and physicians will find this book a valuable addition to their professional library.