The EOHR and Capturing Patient Care Data

The administrative function of patient care and the exploration of the specifics of the patient history are comparable to other medical domains beyond the scope of this paper.  Following the usual patient registration procedures, Figure 1 depicts the patient-dentist relationship in a typical care process.  The process is multifaceted and complex.  The interaction between the patient and dentist starts with the patient history being taken before diagnostic procedures are performed.  In addition to the oral examination, diagnostic procedures include a radiological examination, lab tests, oral cancer screening, and other imaging modalities when applicable.  Based upon the diagnostic findings, a treatment plan is formulated and discussed with the patient.  Preliminary treatment is usually undertaken based on the requirements of subsequent major treatment.  A quality assessment of the treatment plan including necessary prosthetic adjustments is carried out during the whole treatment process.  In order to gain maximum benefit from the treatment rendered, the patient is checked on a regular recall basis.

Figure 1.  Breakdown of the patient-dentist interaction valid at many dental schools or hospitals and private offices.  Depending on the complexity of the case, patients can remain or reenter each state for a consecutive number of times.  See text for details.

As this care process unfolds, there are several issues that could be addressed using a dental informatics approach.  These issues are discussed below.  All of these are important from both a dental informatics and a dental professional's view.

Click Here To Navigate Within Article >> Abstract Introduction Decision-Making Models Expert Systems For Clinical Decision-Making The EOHR and Capturing Patient Care Data Diagnostic Technology Treatment Planning, Pretreatment, Treatment Dental Implications Recall and Outlook Conclusion References About the Author
	Page 5 of 16
Citation Number: Vol. 3, No. 1, Page 031