Client-server, distributed database strategies in a healthcare record system for a homeless population.

A computer-based healthcare record system being developed for Boston's Healthcare for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) uses client-server and distributed database technologies to enhance the delivery of healthcare to patients of this unusual population. The needs of physicians, nurses and social workers are specifically addressed in the application interface so that an integrated approach to healthcare for this population can be facilitated. These patients and their providers have unique medical information needs that are supported by both database and applications technology. To integrate the information capabilities with the actual practice of providers of care to the homeless, this computer-based record system is designed for remote and portable use over regular phone lines. An initial standalone system is being used at one major BHCHP site of care. This project describes methods for creating a secure, accessible, and scalable computer-based medical record using client-server, distributed database design.