Proposing a model for designing an electronic system for managing patinet transfer

Abstract

Abstract Background: Inter-hospital patient transfer is part of care process.The patient transfer coordination, because of volume information and with considering patient’s clinical conditions and time limitations is one of the complex tasks. Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify barriers of the patient transfer and proposing a model for designing an electronic system for managing patient transfer.So with its implementation the coordination of patient transfer by the CTGI be facilitated. Methods: First, a literature review was conducted about “the manegerial and clinical information required before patient transfer” and “Process and outcome indicators assessing the patient transfer”.Then the barriers of the patient transfer and information required before patient transfer is recognizedduring three rounds of Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and 30 semi-structured interviews. After applying the Delphi Technique, the final results were used in designing the electronic model for patient transfer.The model is finalized by the expert panel. Findings: About the barriers of the patient transfer, 12 major themes and 55 subthemes were identified. At the level of referring hospital, they were summarized in five categories, at the receiving hospital in four categories and at the level of CTGI in three categories.The information required before the patient transfer were 245 items, which classified in 22 categories .Furthmore, 46 indicators assessing the patient transfer were classified in 5 categories. The final model including of system structure, patient transfer coordination algorithm user responsibility, System, coordination algorithm andinformation registration as well as user interface suitable for each user’s responsibly was designed. Conclusion: It is necessary to reviewing the patient transfer protocol and paying attention to effective communication infrastructures.The proposed model can be an infrastructure for coordination of the patient transfer and if used, it will improve coordination of patient transfer. Keywords: Inter- hospital patient transfer, Electronic system, Center for Treatment Guidance and Information