Scanning and Image Processing System (SIPS) for Medication Ordering

Abstract

This chapter presents a physician order entry system in the ward (for medication prescriptions) by using scanning and image processing. Important design and operational requirements are presented. Then the scanning and imaging processing system (SIPS) is described. SIPS integrates different information technologies including scanning, bar code and other marks recognition, intelligent image capturing, server database access and retrieval, and network communication and printing. SIPS uses specially designed order forms for doctors to write orders that are then scanned into the computer that performs recognition and image processing. The resulting orders, including doctor’s handwritten images and other order information, are transmitted to the destinations electronically. SIPS reduces human effort (and errors). We observe that SIPS is an innovative use of information technology to meet the needs of a hospital that requires paper-and-pen operations. SIPS can be extended to meet other operational needs as an alternate input method.