The Introduction and Evaluation of Mobile Devices to Improve Access to Patient Records

Abstract

Prompt and efficient access to patient records is vital in providing optimal patient care. The Cancer Agency Information System (CAIS) is the primary patient record repository for the British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA) but is only accessible on traditional computer workstations. The BCCA clinics have significant space limitations resulting in multiple healthcare professionals sharing each workstation. Furthermore, workstations are not available in examination rooms. A novel and cost-efficient solution is necessary to improve clinician access to CAIS. This prompted the BCCA and the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) Information Management Information Technology Services (IMITS) team to embark on an innovative provincial collaboration to introduce and evaluate the impact of a mobile device to improve access to CAIS. The project consisted of 2 phases with over 90 participants from multiple clinical disciplines across BCCA sites and other PHSA facilities. Phase I evaluated the adoptability, effectiveness, and costs associated with providing access to CAIS using desktop virtualization via Citrix. Citrix is a server solution that provides remote access to clients via the Web or to dummy terminals in a network. Phase II incorporated the feedback and findings from Phase I to develop a customized mobile application. Phase II also addressed privacy and security requirements and included additional users and workflows. This is explored in this chapter.