Conceptual database modeling: A method for enabling end users (radiologists) to understand and develop their information management applications

As medical technology advances at a rapid pace, clinicians become further a nd further removed from the design of their own technological tools. This i s particularly evident with information management. For radiologists, clini cal histories, patient reports, and other pertinent information require sop histicated tools for data handling. However, as databases grow more powerfu l and sophisticated, systems require the expertise of programmers and infor mation technology personnel. The radiologist, the clinician end-user, must maintain involvement in the development of system tools to insure effective information management. Conceptual database modeling is a design method th at serves to bridge the gap between the technological aspects of informatio n management and its clinical applications. Conceptual database modeling in volves developing information systems in simple language so that anyone can have input into the overall design. This presentation describes conceptual database modeling, using object role modeling, as a means by which end-use rs (clinicians) may participate in database development. Copyright (C) 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company.