Healthcare providers now rely heavily on analytics software to improve the quality of care. While some develop their analytics software in-house, others install commercial data analytics tools. However, these analytics tools can’t work in isolation. There must be a bridge between them and the other information systems in the organization, and that’s where interface software fits in. Data analytics interface software enables bi-directional data transfer between one information system and analytics software. An analytics interface may provide data transfer between an electronic health record (EHR) system and a health data analytics tool installed in the cloud.
In this article, you will discover the must-have features of an analytics interface app.
1. Multiple Data Exchange Protocols
An analytics interface app will link different health information systems with analytics software. These information systems are usually designed to use different data exchange standards.
While some support HL7, XML, and JSON, others support APIs and FHIR. The problem with choosing an integration interface is that you must be able to connect as many systems as possible to the data analytics software.
The interface must have the capacity to support all exchange protocols and exchange data accurately with the analytics tool to achieve perfect integration.
2. Scalable Data Transfer
Health data reporting needs tend to expand continuously in many organizations. For this reason, your analytics interface must be built to support as many parameters and data fields as required.
When you are starting, ensure that it can send, receive and display all necessary patient and care data, such as:
- Patient demographics
- Patient allergies
- Lab test orders
- Lab results
- Prescription orders
- Care status
- Information on admission
- Data on surgeries.
In addition, the interface needs to have the capacity to transfer, store and retrieve more data when the need arises.
3. Effective Data Security
All patient data must be handled with the right level of security and protection. The interface must use robust encryption protocols and comply with HIPAA rules.
In most cases, the interface will be used by tech-savvy developers and administrators who want to see results, trends, and projections. Hence, it must have a secure log-in interface with two-step authentication, and no unauthorized user should gain access to it.
4. Message Tracking
Well-designed interface software must have a monitoring module. The tracking module will enable users to check the status of the links and any data sent or received.
Interface administrators may need to track or manage HL7 messages. The tracking system should also have the features required to send messages to the vendor or developer to aid in troubleshooting.
5. Notification System
Like the message tracking system, the notification system is part of the admin and management module of the interface. It allows admin users to set up alert notifications for status updates, completion of specific tasks, or to warn about any error or failed data transfer.
A robust notification system prevents unduly long downtimes, and it also helps users act proactively instead of waiting until there is a major system breakdown.
6. Efficient User Interface
When you need to perform administrative tasks, the last thing you want is a cluttered user interface. An intuitive and effective user interface should help you minimize clicks, provide shortcuts, and adapt to different screen sizes.
If you are hiring a development agency to build a solution for you, you must work together to create an intuitive interface for all users. On the other hand, if you want to pay for a pre-built solution, you should invest the time required to test the user interface thoroughly.
Connect With a Data Analytics Interface Software Designer
Work with an interface designer that has built hundreds of custom solutions for healthcare providers. Call Lifepoint Informatics at 877.522.8378 and book a free demo on our contact page today.