Computer-Assisted Diagnosis Program for Acute Abdominal Pain
Abstract
This report summarizes the experience with the Computer-Assisted Medical Diagnosis of Abdominal Pain project from 1 July 1982 - 30 September 1983. During this period, 30 cases of abdominal pain presenting at sea were reported to the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory. Seventy-three percent of these came from the Experimental Group, twenty-seven percent from the Control Group. Review of sick call logs and personal discussions with submarine Hospital Corpsmen disclosed that 80-90% of cases went unreported, largely because of the paperwork involved and concern for uses to be made of the data. Personal visits to submarine Hospital Corpsmen were made to allay these concerns. The datasheet was found helpful by all who used it. The computer program supported the Medical Department Representative's initial diagnosis 75% of the time or better, and was appreciated when used. The potential value of this project as a sophisticated decision aid to the submarine medical department representative is underscored by the results to date. A rigorous scientific trail to validate the computer program is necessary for medical safety.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 19, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA137232
Entities
People
- Steven F. Osborne
Organizations
- Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory