I had a chance to read the recent NIST publication on EHR usability. If you have not seen this document, I strongly suggest you read it. There are many concepts that are parallel to the work we have done with e-prescribing quality. In particular, I like the terminology and organization they have. No need for Surescripts to put together something like this on our own. As much as possible, we will try to refer to this document when we talk about the impact that e-prescribing user interfaces have on the outcome, which is a safe, accurate, unambiguous prescription medication order.
At Surescripts, we have a measurement system of the output of the e-prescribing user interfaces. By looking at issues and areas for improvement, and tying that back to the source, we think we can develop a cause and effect model for the transferral of digital health information. Specifically, we have seen good user interfaces which derive good results. We have also seen weak interfaces which result in poorer outcomes. I don't think users intend to create problems. Seeing a connection between cause and effect is critical in improving safety and outcomes.
I applaud the work of NIST on this publication. I look forward to referencing it and working with the information in this document.
Once you've had a chance to look at it, please make a comment below and let's see if we can all find a way to incorporate this work into what we do day in and day out.
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