House Officer Information System--HOIS

A microcomputer approach to storage of qualitative patient data using key words

A microcomputer program is presented which stores and retrieves qualitative patient information, such as diagnosis and physical findings. Users can design and enter a key word list and modify it as needed. Using those key words, up to 5000 patient entries can be made on a single floppy disk. Application of the program to CT scan study results is discussed.

A survey of decision aids for clinicians

Inconsistency in applying medical knowledge is a major reason for varying standards of medical care. Five types of aid have been introduced into medicine to help decision-making: questionnaires, algorithms, database systems, diagnostic systems, and, finally, computer-based decision-support systems. Of these, the most effective act as reminder or prompt systems to assist doctors without threatening their clinical freedom.