Abstract
Computer based clinical decision support (CDS) systems are emerging as an important tool of modern health information systems. When thoroughly designed and tested, implementation of CDS systems can lead to reduced healthcare costs and improved outcomes in patient care. Today, the application of CDS to blood transfusion is in its infancy, and champions are needed to explore new opportunities. There are early reports of CDS applications in blood transfusion, many of which have primarily focused on the appropriate use of blood components. The ability of these systems to change transfusion practice is promising. As more hospitals begin to upgrade their health information infrastructure, CDS systems will become more available. This will lead to opportunities for transfusion medicine specialists to become involved in the development and implementation of CDS programs applied to blood transfusion. In time, CDS technology will likely play a significant role in the way medicine is practiced. With careful planning and evaluation, CDS has the potential to take transfusion practice to a safer and more effective level. © 2010 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.