Area of Interest: Information Visualization

Information Visualization
Currently, we view most medical data via “Word” documents and “Excel” spreadsheets. And while we are comfortable with these decades old interfaces, today’s physicians and patients are becoming overwhelmed with the increasingly large and complex data sets being created - where a single patient may have thousands of data points (e.g. lab values, vital signs, radiology tests, medications, etc…) spread across a large expanse of time.

What if we could create a fast and intuitive interface to this data which would allow physicians to quickly see what they need to address and patients to better understand their own medical situations? For this type of project, we could take advantage of advanced theories and technologies from outside healthcare, including information intensive businesses like hedge funds and gaming, as well as hardware innovations such as the Microsoft Surface Table and Apple iPhone. Ideally, the result of this information visualization would be used to help decision support, efficiency and information sharing.

Area of Interest: Information Sharing

Information Sharing
We need to do a better job of quickly and easily sharing medical information between all interested parties. This is especially important for complex patients who have multiple care providers and are more likely to have critical issues which need to be addressed urgently. Two key parts of information sharing are as follows:

• Patient-Physician Communication: We need a system that allows patients to send and receive data in whichever format works best for them, and for physicians to do the same. For example, a patient could have a personalized web site to both keep track of their medical data as well as facilitate communication with each of their physicians. This could enhance efficiency, patient education and quality of care.
• Physician-Physician Collaboration: We need a system in which multiple physicians could easily communicate with each other about a specific patient and then all could see what the others are doing and thinking. For example, a web site dedicated to a single patient could display key pieces of patient data while also allowing physicians to securely communicate amongst themselves or post their thoughts and plans for the others to see.

SHIP Mission Statement and Background

Mission Statement
Use creative thinking and diverse technologies to produce a better healthcare experience for patients, physicians and others associated with their care.

Background: The Legacy of Peter Szollosi
Peter Szollosi believed anything was possible. Known for his creative direction, strength of vision and recognition of emerging art, Peter’s genius inspired many beyond their self limitations. “I don’t care what you can’t do” was not a rebuke but a testament to Peter’s interest in you and what you dream to accomplish.

During his healthcare struggles, Peter recognized the potential for using innovation to improve the medical system for patients and healthcare providers. Peter passed away before he was able to bring about any improvements in the healthcare system. However, to honor his memory and legacy, those who were closest to him are working to carry out his intentions and spirit through the Szollosi Healthcare Innovation Program (SHIP).