Hardware: A perfect fit

Because RPMS can run on hardware platforms ranging from midrange computers to single personal computers (PCs), it meets the needs of all sizes of facilities. In fact, RPMS comes complete with one of three hardware configurations, depending on facility size. In addition, the Indian Health Service (IHS) wide area network (WAN) enables information to be shared among all IHS and tribal facilities, from the smallest through intermediary sites, all the way up to IHS Headquarters.

Software applications: The right prescription

RPMS includes more than 45 software applications that were developed by physicians, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other providers. These applications operate individually or as an integrated solution to clinical, administrative, and financial hospital and clinical activities. They run on a broad range of hardware platforms - from midrange computers to single PCs - and with proper modification will interface with a variety of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software products. Healthcare practitioners continue to enhance these applications and develop new ones to meet the changing needs of the Indian health community.

Because these applications are integrated, data only needs to be entered once, at the initial point of patient contact. Once the data is entered into RPMS - regardless of where it is entered or which application is used - it exists across all software applications. So any provider who sees a patient has quick and easy access to all pertinent information about that patient, including laboratory results, medications prescribed, physical complaints made to other providers - anything that has ever been entered about the patient's medical history. That means the patient receives the most efficient, most effective care possible, without having to answer a lot of questions or spend time filling out forms.

Further, using the HL7 protocol, RPMS enables exchange of data both between RPMS applications, and to and from popular spreadsheet and database applications. For facilities considering a commercial off-the-shelf application, the manufacturer should be contacted regarding provision of an interface that will enable it to work with RPMS.

Networking: A global connection

RPMS includes network communication hardware and software so that information can be exchange through:

· A local area network (LAN) within a single facility
· A wide area network (WAN) with other IHS and Tribal facilities and
· The Internet with the Center for Disease Control as well as with other healthcare providers and medical researchers worldwide.

Using the RPMS network, providers can practice telemedicine, teleradiology, and other forms of remote data exchange.

Database: A comprehensive resource

It's easy to measure and report on statistics by tribe, area, time period, etc. All data needed to report on administrative, clinical, and epidemiological activities and findings is contained in one centralized, easy-to-access location. So, information needed for disease studies, or to justify continued or additional funding for healthcare, is at the fingertips of healthcare facilities, in all facilities within an area, and in every IHS and tribal hospital and clinic in the country.