Designing the "Next Generation" of Medical Information Systems

A new breed of medical information systems is required to more effectively address unresolved and newly emerging needs in the healthcare environment. This paper attempts to define those needs and describe the design and implementation of a solution. In order to rapidly develop a prototype solution that is both sustainable with minimal resources and adaptable to future (perhaps unforeseen) needs, certain design principles are proposed. A prototype application was developed using a high level ("abstract") object oriented approach that permits ongoing modification and adaptation at minimal cost. Standards for user interaction, data modeling, and data coding and retrieval were utilized to create a robust Web-based application. Production uses as an autopsy information system, biospecimen management system, and clinical trial management system have ensued.