Healthcare management information systems

¶ … Care

Minitclinic's overall profitability would increase by embracing CCR standards. The level of patient care would increase as well. Continuity of Care Records can be sent or accessed like a piece of mail. Files can be moved from one provider to another with ease. Utilizing CCR protocol will lower costs associated with record keeping. At a conference on CCR in March 2011, Per Busk, Director of Health, Region of Southern Denmark, Denmark stated "Ensuring continuity of care across different sectors is one of the greatest challenges for the health service" he went on to state "By ensuring continuity we can provide patients with the care they need at the right time -- no more, no less. This ensures quality, efficient production and satisfaction." (Busk) Implementing the CCR standard will enable Minitclinic to have access to prior diagnostic testing on patients as well as information relating to pre-existing conditions. Access to this information will be extremely beneficial for MinitClinic, especially when dealing with patients who are suffering multiple illnesses and patients with highly complex illnesses. Memory loss or recall is one of the most common symptoms associated with elderly patients, dementia patients, and Alzheimer's. These patients would benefit tremendously. This would alleviate stress for patients, physicians, as well as family members by ensuring the physician has correct and current information concerning medications, diagnostic tests, and any pre-existing conditions. The physician would not have to rely on a patient's faulty memory Gone would be the need for the patient to bring a list of current medications; this information would be readily available using CCR.

2. The New York Times (April 30, 2012) posted an article pertaining to the importance of Primary Care Physicians. The article stated "A PCP is your main health care provider in non-emergency situations. Your PCP's role is to:

Provide preventive care and teach healthy lifestyle choices

Identify and treat common medical conditions

Assess the urgency of your medical problems and direct you to the best place for that care

Make referrals to medical specialists when necessary

Primary Care Physicians typically see patients as outpatients (in their office, not in a hospital). However, if you are admitted to the hospital, your PCP may assist in or direct your care, depending on the circumstances.

Having a primary care provider can give you a trusting, ongoing relationship with one medical professional over time. (New York Times) MinitClinic understands the need and the importance of having a designated Primary Care Physician. Patients are educated on the benefits associated with a personal PCP and are encouraged to find one they are comfortable with. Information is given to each patient regarding area PCP's that are willing to accept new patients. Minitclinic is capable of transferring all records, prescriptions (if needed) and diagnostic tests to the designated PCP of their choice.