Psychiatric Information Systems: An Analysis of Inpatient and Outpatient Unit Capabilities

ABSTRACT

This paper describes how a sample of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric treatment units use technology to aid in patient care through scheduling, tracking, billing, and documenting clinical services. We conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 68) at four inpatient and four outpatient psychiatric facilities in Oregon. Results indicate psychiatric facilities are assembling systems for managing information that include a combination of electronic linked clinical records, paper records, and unit-specific, unlinked databases. Barriers remain in (1) improving the sophistication of psychiatric information systems, (2) improving linkages of behavioral health with other medical information systems, and (3) increasing information technology support.

KEYWORDS:

• Behavioral health
• informatics
• psychiatric treatment
• mental health
• information systems