Lead-in

We live in a world where technology is key to finding and utilizing information quickly. Healthcare has traditionally lagged behind the rest of the world in embracing technology. For this industry, technology is important in the management of health information. Although paper-based solutions are still prevalent and work efficiently in some contexts, they are limited in important functionality.

The healthcare industry, as it recognizes the need for technology, more frequently relies upon systems, such as clinical and administrative information systems, to manage and provide needed information. At the heart of these systems are databases, which are structured collections of data. Databases allow for the easy retrieval of stored data and the capability to efficiently manage large volumes of data. Since important health-related information is derived from data, the electronic storage and easy retrieval of data can ultimately impact the quality of care and coordination of services.

Directions

Refer to the various case studies presented in this week’s readings showcasing how electronic health records and health technology (HITECH) are improving patient and community health. Now imagine your own health scenario in which  a database could be used to improve the quality of care and the coordination of healthcare and services.

• Briefly describe your scenario and how your database will be used .
• What type of data would be collected and stored?
• What  are 2-3 elements of design that are important to consider when designing your database? Be sure to use your readings and the media for added support.

Required Resources

Media

• Course Media: Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Designing a database. Baltimore: Author.

This media provides a simple example of how an effective relational database can be designed. The example shows the relationships between each element in the sample database.

Readings

Optional Resources

Readings

• Brown, S. H., Fischetti, L. F., Graham, G., et al. (2007). Use of electronic health records in disaster response: The experience of department of veterans affairs after Hurricane Katrina. American Journal of Public Health, 97(S1), 136–1 41.

• National eHealth Collaborative. (2010, February 22). NHIN 101: An introduction to the nationwide health information network. Retrieved fromhttp://www.nationalehealth.org/nhin-100-series-spring-semester-2010

Websites