Effects of Computerized Clinical Decision Support Systems on Preventive Care
Author Information
Author(s): Nathan M Souza, Rolf J Sebaldt, Jean A Mackay, Jeanette C Prorok, Lorraine Weise-Kelly, Tamara Navarro, Nancy L Wilczynski, Brian R Haynes
Primary Institution: McMaster University
Hypothesis
Do CCDSSs improve process of care or patient outcomes for primary preventive care?
Conclusion
Evidence supports the effectiveness of CCDSSs for screening and treatment of dyslipidaemia in primary care, but results for other preventive care activities are mixed.
Supporting Evidence
- CCDSSs improved process of care in 25 of 40 trials.
- Cumulative evidence supports CCDSS effectiveness for dyslipidaemia management.
- Mixed evidence for effectiveness in cancer screening and mental health conditions.
- Only 14 trials assessed patient outcomes, with 4 showing improvements.
Takeaway
This study looked at how computer systems help doctors provide better preventive care. They found that these systems work well for managing cholesterol but not as well for other health checks.
Methodology
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials assessing CCDSS effects on process of care and patient outcomes.
Potential Biases
Potential for publication bias and unblinded trials may dilute intervention effects.
Limitations
Most trials did not assess patient outcomes, and many lacked sufficient power to detect clinically important effects.
Participant Demographics
Most trials involved adults or elderly patients, primarily conducted in high-income countries.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 1.1 to 1.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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