The information imperative: to study the impact of informational discontinuity on clinical decision making among doctors

• DOI: 10.1186/s12911-020-01190-2
• Publication Date: 2020-07-28T19:03:00Z
• Authors: Naveen R. Gowda; Atul Kumar; Sanjay K. Arya; Vikas H
• Keywords: Snowball sampling; Medical record

Abstract Background Informational discontinuity can have far reaching consequences like medical errors, increased re-hospitalization rates and adverse events among others. Thus the holy grail of seamless informational continuity in healthcare has been an enigma with some nations going digital way. Digitization India is fast catching up. The current study explores components continuity, its impact on clinical decision-making captures general perception doctors towards a solution. Methods Cross-sectional snowball sampling. A survey questionnaire was developed validated through pilot study, then circulated online platforms. Responses from were obtained Google form for period 3 months analyzed using SPSS 20. categorical variables Chi-square test. Results 1413 responses national level survey. Respondents wide range work experiences, locations, sectors, specialties patient load. Components records notes, investigation reports, previous diagnosis treatment details rated to be very important. 41% reported about half 20% 3/4th their patients do not bring relevant records. Patients rural areas, visiting state government hospitals practitioners less likely during consultations. fallouts having timely information include more time per patient, repeat investigations, difficulty arrive at definitive diagnosis, take further decisions impaired overall decision making which said significant by respondents across spectrum. benefits also consistently An overwhelming proportion (83%), spectrum, unequivocally expressed willingness use platforms accessing patients’ Conclusion Prevalence definite history. There strong solution(s) without any extra investment or effort part customized solutions pertinent.