Monitoring the Impact of CPOE on Healthcare Delivery – A Benefi ts Realisation Approach

Objective: This paper aims to outline a suite of key indicators of Computerised Pathology Order Entry (CPOE) performance, assess their value as measurements of care delivery and their relevance to health professionals and patients. Background: CPOE systems have the potential to deliver substantial effi ciency gains along with improvements in the effectiveness and quality of patient care. However, these potential gains may be offset by poor implementation strategies and inadequate attention to problems. The implementation of CPOE should be associated with careful monitoring of their impact, particularly in areas related to the quality and safety of patient care. Methods: We draw upon results from our own research over fi ve years to focus on four key indicators of CPOE impact: laboratory turnaround times, test volumes, redundant test rate and length of stay. Each indicator is defi ned and the rationale for its measurement and potential uses identifi ed. Possible confounders to the interpretation of the indicators are assessed and a guide to the quality and reliability of data sources is provided.