Computer-generated GI patient history deemed higher quality

(HealthDay)—Computer-generated histories of present illness (HPIs) seem to be of higher overall quality than physician-documented HPIs, according to a study published online Dec. 2 in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.

Christopher V. Almario, M.D., from the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, and colleagues conducted a cross-sectional study to compare the quality of computer-generated versus physician-documented HPIs. Data were collected for 75 patients visiting outpatient adult gastrointestinal (GI) clinics for evaluation of active GI symptoms who underwent usual care and then completed an Automated Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Symptoms.

The researchers found that even after adjustment for physician and visit type, location, mode of transcription, and demographics, the mean overall impression score was higher for computer-generated HPIs than for physician-documented HPIs (3.68 versus 2.80; P < 0.001). Computer-generated HPIs were found to be more complete, useful, succinct, and comprehensible, and better organized (all P < 0.001).

"Computer-generated HPIs were of higher overall quality, better organized, and more succinct, comprehensible, complete, and useful compared with HPIs written by physicians during usual care in GI clinics," the authors write.