Design of a clinical workstation for primary health care

The authors report on the design and development of an integrated clinical workstation for primary health care. The workstation is Windows based, has a sophisticated user interface and supports a wide range of computing platforms from desktop to laptop to handheld notebook computers. The workstation is modular and expandable both in its software and hardware components so that users may select only those modules appropriate to their own roles, clinical practice and levels of expertise. The design focuses on the provision of clinical services and integrates the following key components. 1) Patient records and basic practice management. 2) Clinical records; based on ICD 10, ICPC or Read Code classifications. 3) Clinical measurements; blood pressure, spirometry, ECG and basic haematology and biochemistry. 4) Clinical decision support; based on epidemiological data, protocols and medical expert systems. 5) Domiciliary care and evaluation of functional health status of the elderly. 6) Communications and networks; wireless LAN, ISDN, modem and fax. 7) Clinical reporting; morbidity profiles, prescribing profiles and laboratory services and procedures.