Usability and information retrieval issues for electronic healthcare record databases

Abstract

Standardized Electronic Healthcare Records (EHRs) data have a complex structure. They are based on dual model approach where domain knowledge is saved as an archetype [1, 2]. It is technically very difficult to generate query language for medical expert to retrieve the data. It gives rise to issue of retrieval and usability of electronic healthcare records databases. To improve the retrieval process, Graphical User Interface (GUI) must be simplified. Other issues related with electronic healthcare record systems are mobility, reachability and optimal use of advancements in information technology. This paper highlights the problems and issues of electronic healthcare record systems. It investigates the available graphical user interfaces for electronic healthcare record databases and compares their usability. Finally, it presents the comparison of a graphical user interface for a standardized Electronic healthcare records application for various handheld mobile devices.