Electronic information access in support of clinical decision making: a comparative study of the impact on rural health care outcomes

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to test whether physician access to electronic information resources in support of clinical decision making in a designated rural and medically underserved area would result in a comparable change in health care outcomes as demonstrated by access to mediated information services.

Method: Current information habits were assessed; A tailored information intervention was provided; Use of resources against outcomes defined by previous studies was evaluated.

Findings: The information intervention had a significant impact on reduction of adverse events and physicians' decision patterns.

Conclusion: Provision of information tools in support of clinical decision making at the point of care, and training in their use, can have as positive an impact on physician decision making and potential for reduction of adverse events in rural health care as access to mediated information services.