The Child Psychiatric Patient Database System of the Chinese University of Hong Kong

Abstract

SummaryAn original child psychiatric patient database system developed in Hong Kong is reported. The system was developed mainly to meet the dilemma of the local working setting, namely heavy clinical and teaching commitments on the one hand and, on the other hand, the failure to make use of the massive and invaluable clinical materials for research purposes because there was no proper collection of data. The system was designed for routine clinical purposes with strong emphasis on practicability, and yet it also allows the systematic, comprehensive and prospective collection of clinical data. The first part of the system is a semistructured interview schedule which reflects the author’s usual style of interview, especially his preference for the family approach. Data are collected in two forms - a precoded and readily analyzable form, and a descriptive and non-coded form. The second part of the system is a computer program for converting the raw data to medical records. Some preliminary experience of using the system is also discussed. The system may easily be modified to suit different clinical styles and settings.