Overview of presentation
     • Definition of DSS
     • What do they do?
     • Target areas and users
     • Methodologies
     • Some examples of applications
                             
            Decision Support Systems
              Support for Health Care Professionals
      • What is a decision support system?
         – "A DSS/KBS is any computer program designed 
           to help health professionals make clinical 
           decisions" [Shortliffe, 1987]      e.g...
      • Information management
      • Focussing attention (alarms)
      • Consultation
                                  
            Decision Support Systems
             Support for Health Care Professionals
      • Desirable DSS Features:
         – can be configured by the local users
         – have measurable benefits for patients and staff
         – control “data intoxication”
         – promote cost-effectiveness and efficient  use of resources
         – improve co-operation between central and remote labs
         – based on appropriate informatics and telematic standards
         – can be integrated with existing LIS, order communication systems, 
           and relevant clinical information systems
                                 
                    DSS versus KBS
      • Knowledge-based systems (KBS) are computer 
         programs which seek to imitate human 
         intelligence and expertise through the use of 
         symbolic reasoning
      • DSS emphasise SUPPORT for the decision-
         making process
                                  
                  Do labs need DSS?
      • Advances in laboratory technology 
         – Automation
         – Integrated laboratories
         – distributed laboratories (satellite labs, point-of-
           care facilities, etc)
      • Increases in workload
      • Limitations on staff and resources