The end-users of the system that input information into particular elements of the system.
o Administration.
o The end-users of the system that input information into particular elements of the system.
o The most critical interprofessional team members that need to access and read that information; in other words, individuals who could be part of an informatics support team for the system.
• How is the system currently functioning?
o How would the stakeholders like it to function?
• What are the risks that the current system poses to patient safety?
• What are the best evidence-based practices with use of this type of information system?
• What software and hardware functionality do the stakeholders want?
• How might this information system change enhance workflow and communication?
• How will data capture improve with implementation of this system?
• What are the current effects from the system’s use on health care delivery outcomes?
o Will a change enhance outcomes?
This framework outlines key areas to consider when evaluating a healthcare information system (HIS). It incorporates the perspectives of various stakeholders and assesses the system's impact on patient safety, workflow, and overall healthcare delivery.
Stakeholders:
- Administration: Focuses on the system's cost-effectiveness, return on investment (ROI), administrative burden, and compliance with regulations.
- End-Users: Clinicians (physicians, nurses) and other personnel who input data into the system. Their concerns include ease of use, efficiency, and compatibility with their workflows.
- Informatics Support Team: IT professionals responsible for system maintenance, troubleshooting, and user training. They require system access to ensure functionality and address technical issues.
Current State vs. Desired State:
- Current Functioning: Assess how the HIS currently operates, including data flow, accessibility, and reporting capabilities.
- Desired Functioning: Identify stakeholder needs for improved functionality, such as real-time data access, interoperability with other systems, and user-friendly interfaces.
Patient Safety Risks:
- Data Accuracy and Completeness: Evaluate the risk of errors in data entry, missing information, and potential consequences for patient care decisions.
- System Security: Assess vulnerabilities to cyberattacks, data breaches, and unauthorized access to patient information.
- Workflow Disruptions: Analyze potential disruptions to existing workflows during implementation and how they might impact patient care.
Best Practices:
- Research and identify evidence-based practices for HIS implementation and utilization within the specific context of the healthcare institution.
- Consider industry standards and guidelines for data security and patient privacy.
Software and Hardware Needs:
- Functionalities: Identify desired functionalities based on stakeholder needs, such as clinical decision support tools, order entry systems, and robust reporting features.
- Hardware Compatibility: Ensure the HIS software is compatible with existing hardware infrastructure or consider necessary upgrades.
Workflow and Communication:
- Impact on Workflow: Analyze how the new HIS might streamline workflows, improve communication between healthcare team members, and enhance patient care coordination.
- Training and Support: Develop a comprehensive training plan for all users to ensure optimal utilization of the new system.
Data Capture and Outcomes:
- Data Capture Improvement: Evaluate how the new HIS can improve data capture accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.
- Outcomes Assessment: Analyze the current impact of the HIS on healthcare delivery outcomes (e.g., readmission rates, medication adherence).
- Potential Outcome Enhancement: Project how the improved functionalities of the new HIS might lead to better patient outcomes.
By addressing these aspects, healthcare institutions can conduct a comprehensive analysis of their HIS. This analysis can inform strategic decision-making for system upgrades or replacements, ultimately leading to improved patient care, efficient workflows, and a safer healthcare environment.