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.