Implementing an Electronic Clinical Activity Capture System for a Hospital Pharmacy Department - a Case Report in New Zealand
Ng, Jerome(2009)
Health Care and Informatics Review Online 13(3):16-26
AIM: To implement an electronic clinical activity capture system for a hospital clinical pharmacy department.
INTRODUCTION: organisations Health service departments are increasingly being held accountable for providing high quality, efficient yet cost effective care. In order to do this, there must be robust information systems in place to capture relevant and measurable data on service workflow and activities.
CASE REPORT: This case report discusses the implementation process of such a system at the Middlemore Hospital Clinical Pharmacy Department from the period of January 2008 through to July 2009, highlighting key steps and barriers during this process. Selected examples of data and reports produced are also described showing the types of information that can be generated for the purpose of quality improvement and administration.
DISCUSSION: Implementation of a new electronic clinical activity capture system requires a multifaceted approach which must address legal, privacy, security, technological and human factors. This case report describes key steps in the implementation process and may help other departments which are undergoing such processes.