Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2013
Abstract
Medication error has been identified as a major factor affecting patient safety. Many innovative efforts such as Computerised Physician Order Entry (CPOE), a Pharmacy Information System, automated dispensing machines and Point of Administration Systems have been carried out with the aim of improving medication safety. However, areas remain that require urgent attention. One main area will be the lack of continuity of care due to the breakdown of communication between multiple healthcare providers. Solutions may include consideration of "health smart cards" that carry vital patient medical information in the form of a "credit card" or use of the Malaysian identification card. However, costs and technical aspects associated with the implementation of this health smart card will be a significant barrier. Security and confidentiality, on the other hand, are expected to be of primary concern to patients. Challenges associated with the implementation of a health smart card might include physician buy-in for use in his or her everyday practice. Training and technical support should also be available to ensure the smooth implementation of this system. Despite these challenges, implementation of a health smart card moves us closer to seamless care in our country, thereby increasing the productivity and quality of healthcare.
Keywords
Health innovation, patient safety
Divisions
fac_med
Publication Title
Australasian Medical Journal
Volume
6
Issue
1
Publisher
Australasian Medical Journal
Additional Information
Sellappans, Renukha Chua, Siew Siang Tajuddin, Nur Amani Ahmad Mei Lai, Pauline Siew eng Australia 2013/02/21 06:00 Australas Med J. 2013;6(1):60-3. doi: 10.4066/AMJ.2013.1643. Epub 2013 Jan 31.