Brenda Stutsky (University of Manitoba), Marilyn Singer (University of Manitoba), Jose Francois (University of Manitoba) 

Synopsis

In order to manage the vast amount of data collected during a practice assessment, the Manitoba Practice Assessment Program contracted with a vendor to design and build a Forms and Information Management System. Learn about this customizable system and the functionalities in relation to a comprehensive practice assessment program.

Background

The Manitoba Practice Assessment Program (MPAP) was developed based on an identified need from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM) and involves the assessment of practicing physicians on the CPSM provisional register. The assessment process involves the completion of approximately 20 assessment tools and various administrative forms. Given the vast amount of data needing to be triangulated, analyzed, and compiled into a comprehensive practice assessment report, an automated solution was required.

Purpose

The purpose of the MPAP Forms and Information Management System was to automate the manual process of triangulating assessment data into a final report. In addition, data inputting errors and the time to produce a final report would decrease.

Method

From April 2011 to March 2012, the MPAP contracted a local Internet development and software programming company to design and build the MPAP Forms and Information Management System. Requirements for the system included a secure password protected web-based user interface in which physician candidates, assessors, and other individuals such as physician and interprofessional colleagues could access to complete assessment tools. An administrative interface to create, change, add, and delete assessment forms was needed along with the ability to generate multiple reports including a main report listing all of the CanMEDS competencies, the various forms completed, and associated scores. Security of the system was a priority along with usability.

Results and Future Directions

Lessons learned in the development of the system will be highlighted. Potential uses for the system beyond physician assessment will be explored.