Multimedia case history as a tool for management of patients and clinical trials

Monitoring diagnostic procedures, treatment protocols and clinical outcome are key issues in maintaining quality medical care and in evaluating clinical trials. For these purposes, a user-friendly computerized method for monitoring medical events is required. We describe a computerized data collection system for verification, analysis and storage of clinical information on an individual patient. Data was integrated on a single time axis with normalized graphics. Laboratory data was set according to standard protocols selected by the user and diagnostic images were integrated as needed The system automatically detects variables that fall outside established limits and violations of protocols, and generates 'alarm signals' or 'blocking inquiries' (demanding an obligatory user's reaction). Simultaneously, the alarm and an advice on the incident are directed to a defined set of e-mail addresses. The system provided an effective tool for detection of medical errors, administration of inappropriate medications and non-observance of their compatibility, identification of discrepancies between therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, and protocol requirements. This system reduced the incidence of medical errors and provided an accurate method for monitoring the standard-of-care.