Study of Data Content and Data Flow in General Practice Systems in Selected Countries: Modeling for Iran

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: General Practice is one of the main components of health system. Information collected in General Practice System is vital for optimal patient care. If content of these data is not enough or is not communicated appropriately, the continuity of patient care will not be feasible. Iran has begun to implement General Practice program. Defining data content and data flow is crucial to implement this program appropriately. Aim of the study: Aim of this study was to establish data content and data flow for General Practice program in Iran. Material and Method: This study was conducted through systematic review, comparative study of data content and data flow of General Practice programs in selected countries and qualitative method (through checklist, focus group discussion and delphi technique). Participants in this study were General Practitioners and experts in General Practice programs in East Azerbaijan province. UML (Unified Modeling Language) was deployed for representing the model through using Rational Rose 8.2 software. Results: Themes for data content were obtained as demographic, clinical and administrative information. Methods and tools for data exchange, standards used in data content and data flow, entities participating in data exchange and information format of data exchange in General Practice System were determined. The model was represented through depicting class diagram, usecase diagram and activity diagram in UML. Conclusion: Appropriate data content and exchange are main requirements of General Practice System. Any effort toward improvement of these two necessary components can help achieve the main purposes of General Practice System including continuity of patient care across the continuum of health System.