Research to explore a local healthcare delivery system.

 

Conduct internet research to explore a local healthcare delivery system. This assignment will help you understand how healthcare organizations operate and manage health information.

Task Overview:

1 Select a Healthcare Delivery SystemUse the internet to research one of the following types of healthcare facilities in your area or another region of interest:

Critical access hospital

Long-term care facility (e.g., independent living, assisted living, or skilled nursing complex)

Ambulatory surgery center

Dental clinic

Eye clinic

2 Conduct Online ResearchUsing reliable sources such as the facilitys website, industry reports, or articles, gather the following information:

Facility Type and Services: What type of services does the facility offer?

Patient Population: What kind of patients does the facility serve?

Health Information Management (HIM) Practices: How does the facility manage patient information (e.g., electronic health records, privacy practices)?

Challenges: What are the key challenges the facility faces in delivering patient care and managing health information?

Technology: What systems or technology are used to manage patient records or care?

3 Complete a Site ProfileAfter conducting your research, write a detailed Site Profile that includes:

Name of the Facility

Location

Type of Healthcare Facility

Services Offered

Health Information Management Practices

Sample Solution

Name of the Facility: Kisumu County Hospital

Location: Kisumu, Kisumu County, Kenya

Type of Healthcare Facility: Public, tertiary-level hospital

Services Offered:

  • Inpatient and outpatient care  
  • Emergency services
  • Specialized clinics (e.g., cardiology, oncology, pediatrics)
  • Surgical services
  • Maternal and child health services
  • Laboratory and diagnostic services
  • Rehabilitation services

Health Information Management Practices:

Kisumu County Hospital is in the process of implementing an electronic health record (EHR) system. This transition aims to improve the efficiency of patient care, reduce errors, and enhance data management. The EHR system is being integrated with other health information systems, such as laboratory information systems and radiology information systems.

Key Challenges:

  • Resource Constraints: Limited funding and staffing can hinder the effective delivery of healthcare services.
  • Infrastructure: Aging infrastructure and equipment can pose challenges to providing quality care.
  • Technology Adoption: Implementing new technologies, such as EHR systems, can be challenging due to resistance to change and lack of technical expertise.
  • Data Privacy: Ensuring the confidentiality and security of patient data is a critical challenge in the healthcare sector.  

Technology:

In addition to the EHR system, Kisumu County Hospital utilizes various other technologies, including:

  • Laboratory information system (LIS): For managing laboratory tests and results.
  • Radiology information system (RIS): For managing radiology images and reports.
  • Medical imaging equipment: X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRI machines, and ultrasound machines.
  • Telemedicine: For remote consultations and monitoring of patients.

The implementation of these technologies is aimed at improving the efficiency and quality of patient care at Kisumu County Hospital.

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