Introduction : In the United States, computerized clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) are being adopted increasingly in primary care. Our purpose is to illustrate the functionality and validity of CDSSs, as well as to discuss the possibility of using them in Japan.
Method : The Department of Family Medicine in the University of Michigan Health System uses a flexible and user-friendly CDSS. In this four-part overview, we examine: 1) integration into work flow in the clinic, 2) response to prompts by the health professionals, 3) content and structure of prompts and reminders, and 4) performance reports.
Results : A CDSS can integrate into a single encounter form preventive and chronic care needs for best quality practice. CDSSs can readily generate clinical care quality and population management reports to support population management and verify best care practices.
Conclusion : As efforts are made to create a viable CDSS in Japan, it would be useful to look at the U.S. example of how a CDSS can both provide clinical decision-making support for evidence-based preventive services and improve the quality of medical practice.