Preventable inpatient time: Adequacy of electronic patient information systems

Objectives. This study assessed hospital electronic patient information sys tems (EPIS) for inclusion of variables associated with avoidable and extend ed hospitalization (preventable inpatient time). Methods. We searched MEDLINE and HealthSTAR databases to identify predictor s of preventable inpatient time. We then audited the admissions process and the handwritten medical record at 1 hospital, and the EPIS at all hospital s, affiliated with the Yale University School of Medicine for inclusion of the predictors. Results. Whereas the written medical record included all 58 predictors, the EPIS of the 10 hospitals surveyed included an average of only 38% of the p redictors. Conclusions. The conventional approach to information gathering during hosp ital admission is highly inefficient. Revising EPIS to include predictors o f preventable inpatient time could enhance efficiency and quality, while re ducing costs, of hospital care.