Use of guidelines and decision support systems within EHR applications in family practice - Croatian experience

Abstract

The aim of this survey was to evaluate the state of implementation of guidelines and decision support systems within the EHR applications in Croatian family practice. The survey was conducted using electronic and paper based questionnaires which were formed in accordance to European best practice. Obtained survey results are showing number of improvement areas, which relate to both existing applications, as well as doctors' knowledge about qualities and possibilities of the guideline-based decision support systems. What we see as the foundation in this process is implementation of open standards such as HL7 in combination with open source technologies, which could significantly improve the overall situation. Continuous education of doctors and health authorities about the possibilities and needs for use of those systems is essential in the adoption process. © 2010 International Federation for Medical and Biological Engineering.