Using microcomputers to improve the timeliness, accuracy, and accessibility of clinical data.

This article presents a microcomputer system as a solution to achieve timely, accurate and accessible clinical data. The article describes the components of the clinical data system as well as its functionality. The advantages of automated encoders for coding, editing and grouping of clinical data are outlined, as well as the advantages of relational database software for clinical data management. Clinical data support a myriad of activities within the health care facility. The microcomputer system provides the departmental user with flexibility and customization to meet and manage the ever-changing clinical data requirements. Client hospital experience demonstrate, not only an increase in the accuracy and availability of data, but also an increase in the productivity of the data collection process itself.