It was always the dream of General Practice computerisation - To develop the information technology to enable GPs to look at their own population, their own work, and their own outcomes of care.
The CAT tool delivers that dream to each GP.
With multiple standard reports, that can be filtered with multiple parameters – even the most computer illiterate GP can become proficient at examining their own databases.
The data can be used to examine gaps in health care, directing or targeting services, and the planning of health service delivery.
GPs have an enormous advantage in that they are the only professional body who has a wealth of data on the “health and wellbeing” of a community. It is information that is eagerly sought by many groups. No longer will the GP have an “opinion” at the local area health authority – their opinion can be backed with data.
One of the first tasks I undertook with the CAT was to demonstrate its effectiveness in determining quality of care issues with the Queensland State Commissioner for Health Quality and Complaints – Professor Michael Ward. Michael is a former gastroenterologist and one of the original enthusiasts of IT in medical care. He has responsibility in the State to ensure standards of all health care providers. He was impressed with the level of sophistication of the product and the quality of information it provided.
I congratulate the RACGP and PenComputing in developing this tool. The CAT is continuing to be developed and I certainly look forward to progressing its impressive functionality.
Further Enquiries
If you would like to contact Pen Computer Systems directly about how CAT can enhance patient and business outcomes in your division, contact:
Phone: 61 2 9635 8955
Fax: 61 2 9635 8966
Email: cat@pencs.com.au
General practice staff should contact their local Division in the first instance to get CAT for their practice.