Fountain Software Completes Innovative-Actions Programme

Dec 12th 2004 - Fountain Software recently completed the the Innovative Actions Programme run by Shannon Development. This programme provided Fountain with access to academic and research resources at the University of Limerick. Training was provided on Idea Generation and Innovation, Project Planning, Project Management and Intellectual Property issues for technology companies.

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Fountain Software Completes Handheld Clinical System Feasibility Study

June 1st 2003 - Fountain Software recently completed a feasibility study on the use of handheld Tablet PCs for clinical information input. The study was co-sponsored by Shannon Development and it involved the investigation of product requirements and the development of a software requirements specification for a Tablet PC based clinical system product. In addition, a prototype for demonstration and further market research was developed using the Microsoft .NET C# programming language and Tablet PC Software Development kit.

A special 'Digital Ink' user control was developed to allow the capture and display of clinical statements using handwriting.  Each clinical statement can be assigned a separate Ink control and embedded in a clinical encounter note. A windows form can be presented to allow optional capture of structured information using lists or checkboxes along with associated handwritten clinical information in digital Ink.  By combining handwritten clinical notes with structured information like disease and drug codes, it is possible to provide good electronic patient record capabilities while retaining the freedom of expression that clinicians have when using paper based clinical notes at the point of care.

The Tablet PC holds great promise for medical professionals who typically spend a lot of their time standing at the patient's bedside or walking while on ward rounds. While some technical issues remain to be addressed, there is no doubt that these devices will prove invaluable in providing real-time access to patient information for medical staff on the move.