Computers have cut loss of patient data by a quarter

THE computerised systems used in Nicosia and Famagusta general hospitals since 2008 has cut by a quarter the loss of patient data, the Health Minister said yesterday.

Christos Patsalides said that the computerised system has eliminated the loss of one in four laboratory examinations which would once have been shelved due to badly written referrals for screening and other patient data. The system, together with the performance of tests on CD, has reduced the use of X-ray films to 75 per cent, which has also lead to a reduction in ministry expenses.

Upon registration at a medical facility, an electronic file is created for each patient allowing a highly integrated medical care system to be in effect, including the automatic linking of prescriptions with the pharmacy system so as to adjust stock accordingly.

Doctors are able to immediately access full patient information and medical history with a click of a button, Patsalides said.

“Basically the system improves both efficiency and quality of care,” said Antonia Michael, project manager at IBM which is the system integrator and handles the technology aspect of the project. “The capabilities of the system are huge. In the short time it’s been in use, the results have shown great achievements,” she said.

The next steps in the journey towards electronic health include spreading the system to other hospitals and establishing internet access for patients and visitors at the hospitals.

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