Assessment of local area network based on the microcomputer system for data processing of perinatal medical information.

In order to control perinatal medical information, we developed a microcomputer-based local area network. This system has been in practical operation since June, 1986. We have assessed this system with regard to both patient-machine and doctor-machine interfaces. Consequently, although input operation took 20-30% longer per individual patient than before, it was more feasible for medical staff to access and retrieve the data in a real-time manner. When tested in a ten month period, this system was found to be a prototype applicable for further extending the management of the entire scope of perinatal medical information.