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The OpenMRS System: Collaborating Toward an Open Source EMR for Developing Countries


This is a review of Wolfe, Mamlin, Biondich, Hamish, Jazzayeri, Allen, Miranda, & Tierney (2006) article, The OpenMRS System: Collaborating Toward an Open Source EMR for Developing Countries. <ref name="Wolfe  2006">Wolfe, B. A., Mamlin, B. W., Biondich, P. G., Hamish, S. F., Jazzayeri, D., Allen, C., Miranda, J., & Tierney,  W. M.. (2006). The openMRS system: Collaborating toward an open source EMR for developing countries. AMIA Symposium Proceedings. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17238765.</ref>


== Research Question ==
The purpose of this study is to evaluate open-source [[EMR]] software for use in developing countries serving: patients, clinicians, research, funding agents, and the Ministry of Health.

== Abstract ==
It is difficult for an EMR to meet the needs of the above the listed stakeholders. OpenMRS was chosen for evaluation with regard to these groups. OpenMRS was produced and maintained across multiple insinuations.  The open-sources software is comprised of an open sourced data model, a set of core application functions, and a default implementation to aid beginning users.

== Methods ==
Regenstrief Institute and Partners in Health (PIH) created a collaborative network and an initial code base. OpenMRS provides easy access to backend databases.  The system is also scalable and available in multiple languages with an encoded-value dictionary providing an encounter form for questions and answers. The dictionary was borrowed from the Regenstrief Institute. OpenMRS was chosen over other system because it was designed for use in a limited recourse environment. Java was chosen for the programming language because of its widespread use and inter-operating system design. Hibernate was used to bridge Java and the relational database. 

== Results ==
OpernMRS was installed and tested in western Kenya. The dictionary used met the needs of all the stakeholders.  Encoded values allowed for easy form use and data communication to clinicians, patients, and developers. The researchers, funding agents, and Ministries of Health were able to access clean definable data with little cost for EMR instillation and adaption.  

== Discussion ==
Few EMRs are available to developing countries. This study proved it was possible to meet the needs of all stakeholders at a low cost. Future implementations are expected in Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda. 

== Comments ==
Developing counties can benefit from advancements in healthcare, including EMR systems. However, there are several challenges for these countries regarding their ability acquire and implement an EMR system. This study proves it is possible to successfully implement an EMR system capable of performing well in poor developing counties. OpenMRS may be a means of globally delivering the technological advantages associated with EMR systems.

== Related Links ==
#[[Leveraging of Open EMR Architecture for Clinical Trial Accrual]]
#[[Open_source_EMR_software:_Proﬁling,_insights,_and_hands-on_analysis]]
#[[Evaluation and selection of open-source EMR software packages based on integrated AHP and TOPSIS]]

== References ==
<references/>

[[Category:Reviews]]
[[Category:HI5313-2015-FALL]]
[[Category:OpenSource]]
[[Category: EMR]]
[[Category: CIS]]