Examples of such technology include biomedical databases, electronic medical records, computerized order entry, handheld wireless computers, Internet applications, and computerized decision-support systems. Develop applications that allow providers to share medical records and other medical information with their patients. Develop handheld or other portable device applications for patients and providers. Proposals must address how the use of these technologies can improve quality of care and patient safety. In Phase I, investigators should propose an approach or combination of approaches for identifying factors important in the development of these tools and devices.
Comprehensive literature reviews.
Secondary data analysis. Other techniques appropriate for Phase I contracts. The contractor will be expected to develop prototype devices and interventions, such as Web-based technologies that interactively link patients with their health care providers and health care systems. In Phase II, the investigators will be expected to expand on the prototype developed during Phase I and begin implementation and testing of the prototype devices and interventions. Phase II must include an assessment of the intervention's impact on important measurable outcomes such as a reduction in medication errors, increase in compliance with recommended treatment guidelines, etc.