A DSS for management of patients with a chronic illness

Abstract

There is uncertainty in the management of an individual with a chronic illness. The uncertainty results from lack of information about groups of similar patients. A feedback model for patient care is presented and its implementation discussed. The model requires characterization of patients at the time of entry into the health-care system, cataloging the methods of management used and assessing the response to treatments by following the patient over long periods of time.With a computer-based data management system, the doctor can select a subgroup of like patients and review their management and their responses. Using the experiences of other patients, the doctor and patient can map out the most appropriate treatment. By following the patient over time, his treatment response can be compared with those in the subgroup. If the responses are not equivalent, the subgroup definition can be modified and another treatment selected. An example of the use of this strategy in determining time of discharge for patients on a coronary care unit is presented.