The Introduction of Computer-based Patient Records in the Netherlands

Abstract

Computer-based patient records, although an area of active research, are not in widespread use. In June 1992, 38% of Dutch general practitioners had introduced computer-based patient records. Of these, 70% had replaced the paper patient record with a computer-based record to retrieve and record clinical data during consultations. Possible reasons for the use of computer-based patient records include the nature of Dutch general practice and the early and active role of professional organizations in recognizing the potential of computer-stored patient records. Professional organizations issued guidelines for information systems in general practice, evaluated available systems, and provided postgraduate training that prepares physicians to use the systems. In addition, professional organizations successfully urged the government to reimburse general practitioners part of the expenses related to the introduction of computer-based patient records. Our experience indicates that physicians are willing and able to integrate information technology in their practices and that professional organizations can play an active role in the introduction of information technology.

Adherence to proton pump inhibitors or H2‐receptor antagonists during the use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs

“…Details of the database have been described elsewhere. 15,16 Briefly, the database contains the complete electronic medical records for approximately 500 000 patients. The electronic records contain coded and anonymous data on patient demographics, symptoms (in free text), diagnoses (using the International Classification for Primary Care and free text), clinical findings, referrals, laboratory findings and hospitalizations.…”

Generating Evidence From Computerized Healthcare Utilization Databases

“…In the Netherlands, the Integrated Primary Care Information database involves ≈150 general practitioners and up to half a million patients. 24 In Italy, the Health Search MR database involves ≈900 general practitioners and >1.2 million patients. 25 In Sweden, a database that includes >75 primary care centers covering an area with ≈800 000 individuals is used for investigating several fields of healthcare research, including hypertension.…”

Prevalence and treatment of hypertensive patients with multiple concomitant cardiovascular risk factors in The Netherlands and Italy

“…18,19 In the Dutch healthcare system, the GP plays a pivotal role by acting as a gatekeeper for all medical care. All residents of The Netherlands are registered with a GP independent of their health status.…”

“…18 Information is entered into computer by the GPs and includes patient demographics, general notes, prescriptions, physical findings and laboratory findings. 18,19 Coding of prescriptions is performed according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification scheme recommended by the World Health Organization. The system complies with European Union guidelines on the use of medical data for medical research and has been proven valid for pharmacoepidemiological research.…”