[Gnumed-devel] graphical representations of objective parameters

[Vaibhav Banait]

Hi
while following up a patient for a long time, you may fail to ponder over 
objective signs which when compared to previous visit record may not appear 
important, but when you look at the trend, you may pick up pathologist at early 
stage.
few such parameters are weight, vital signs (p, bp) Hb, albumin. Etc. To 
clarify the point I would cite an example. If you are following up a patient 
with functional disorder, you may tend to ignore symptoms. The actual weight 
loss between the two visits may not be significant say half a kg and thus when 
compared to previous visit, may be ignored. But if you get a pop up after 
entering a weight in field provided showing graphical trend over previous few 
visits , half a kg weight loss which is still not significant, but is 
progressively occurring may indicate serious disorder and thus may necessitate 
further evaluation. 
The emr thus should contribute in this way for early diagnosis. Few such 
parameters across the practice can be identified and fields should be provided 
for the same.   
similarly algorithms may be suggested using emr for a symptom or symptom 
complex evaluation . I am not sure how this can be achieved but I would like to 
know your opinion 
Regards
Vaibhav Banait