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Connecting People and Care through Integrated Information
an article from the Fall 2008 issue of…
 At Harbor Hospital, we strive to provide quality care and make our patients and guests feel comfortable when they visit our facilities. In 2007, MedStar Health, the eight-hospital system of which Harbor Hospital is a proud member, launched a four-year, $150 million project to advance information technology (IT) throughout its hospitals. The resulting technology upgrades will help ensure accuracy and efficiency to further enhance patient safety, quality of care and comfort at Harbor Hospital.
Free Wireless Internet
Patients and guests of Harbor Hospital now have free access to the Internet when working on wireless devices, such as laptops. They can e-mail friends and family and surf the Web from several locations throughout the hospital.
Convenient Online Services
To make it easier for you to communicate with your doctors at any MedStar Health facility, including Harbor Hospital, we're creating a convenient Internet-based patient Web site. You can log on - 24/7 - to request an appointment or prescription refill. A small group of users is now testing a pilot version.
Efficient Information Sharing
Soon, Harbor Hospital will store much of your health care information electronically. Staff will enter your treatment information, such as test results and medications, giving your health care team quick access to accurate, up-to-date information about your care. Because your health care providers will have the most recent information, you'll receive more timely treatment. Built-in security measures protect your privacy, only allowing staff members to see the details they need to care for you.
This is just one element in our extensive effort to improve patient care and safety using technology.
Electronic Medical Records
In addition to efficient information sharing, having an electronic medical record means fewer hassles for you. For example, as a patient at any of the MedStar-owned physician practices throughout Baltimore and Washington, you no longer will need to copy and transfer medical records from one practice to another. Your physicians will have access to your medical information right away.
Accurate, Streamlined Care
Doctors also will be able to electronically enter orders for tests, scans and medications. "This will eliminate possible mistakes in reading handwritten orders," explained Patricia Moorhouse-Getz, R.N., Quality Management clinical analyst. "It also will prompt staff to collect necessary information, which will streamline your care."
The four-phase IT project will continue into 2011. "It's all part of our ongoing commitment to provide you with the best possible care," said Moorhouse-Getz.
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