Proof-of-concept solution to create an interoperable timeline of healthcare data

BMJ Health Care Inform. 2023 Nov;30(1):e100754. doi: 10.1136/bmjhci-2023-100754.

Abstract

Objectives: To overcome the barriers of interoperability by sharing simulated patient data from different electronic health records systems and presenting them in an intuitive timeline of events.

Methods: The 'Patient Story' software comprising database and blockchain, PS Timeline Windows interface, PS Timeline Web interface and network relays on Azure cloud was customised for Epic and Lorenzo electonic patient record (EPR) systems used at different hospitals, using site-specific adapters.

Results: Each site could view their own clinical documents and view each other's site specific, fully coded test sets of (Care Connect) medications, conditions and allergies, in an aggregated single view.

Discussion: This work has shown that clinical data from different EPR systems can be successfully integrated and visualised on a single timeline, accessible by clinicians and patients.

Conclusion: The Patient Story system combined the timeline visualisation with successful interoperability across healthcare settings, as well giving patients the ability to directly interact with their timeline.

Keywords: Data Visualization; Electronic Health Records; Health Information Interoperability; Patient Care.

MeSH terms

  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Electronic Health Records*
  • Health Facilities
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Software*