III. the Physicians Office and Group Practice—Ambulatory Medical Record Systems: E. Patient Education: PIES: Patient Instruction in the Physicians Office

摘要

We describe a microcomputer based system (PIES: patient information and education system) which can provide education and clinical management assistance to patients. The system uses standard microcomputer hardware and software to minimize expense and maximize transportability. The software is independent of the medical content, and provides a powerful, flexible tool for patient instruction in multiple clinical areas. A patient may answer questions in a variety of formats including multiple choice, numeric, or textual. The patient's responses determine the subsequent flow of material, and may be manipulated and stored for later use in the same session or later sessions.Initial implementation of the system is in the management of diabetic problems including foot care, urine testing, and minor illnesses. The implementation has the potential to supplement present educational programs as well as provide education and management advice to clinical settings lacking other educational techniques.