Health status measurement in computer-based patient record systems.

As requests for information about quality of health care have increased, purchasers of computer-based patient record (CPR) systems are demanding information regarding the manner in which these systems can assist in measuring health care quality. The type of information requested by purchasers of health care, accrediting agencies, and consumer groups is shifting toward more complex measures of health status. Both provider and patient perceptions of health status are relevant in measuring the impact of health care interventions. Standardized coding and classification systems and standardized health status measurement instruments each offer utility in capturing and representing health status in CPR systems.