Design and development of a customized decision support system in oncology

Abstract

Clinical Decision Making is the formulation of diagnosis based on the patient information and domain knowledge gathered from various sources. Delay in receiving these information can affect patient care. In this regard, Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) can be seen as a promising tool to equip and support the healthcare professionals with patient information and domain knowledge to assist in quality decision making during patient care and evaluation. Cancer control and prevention highly depends on instant availability of health information and clinical knowledge related to cancer care, where CDSS can play a very crucial part. Design, development and implementation of Clinical Decision Support System is dependent on the knowledge, utilization pattern, perception and expectation of oncologists regarding this. Aim: To design and develop a customized clinical decision support system in Oncology. Objectives: To assimilate the knowledge and to understand the utilization pattern of existing information system and assess the perception and expectation of Oncologists in respect of clinical decision support system. Methodology: The research was conducted in three phases: Phase 1 consisted of assessing the awareness and utilization pattern of existing information system and identifying the perception and expectation of Oncologist towards CDSS. A descriptive study was conducted among 100 Oncologists of 12 cancer hospitals and research centers of Southern India. A validated survey questionnaire consisting of open and closed ended questions related to knowledge of information system, utilization of existing information system in practice, perception and expectations of Oncologists in respect of CDSS was provided to the participants who were asked to mark their response on a 5-Point Likert Scale i.e. from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree and Yes and No. A time motion study was also conducted to understand the issues related to the access of patient information and domain knowledge.