openEMR

In researching many open source health IT systems, one of the apparent drawbacks appears to be the lack of development in the visual aesthetics of the systems offered. Also, there are many small software modules in open source, but there does not appear to be a more dominant comprehensive software package suite like Microsoft or GE offers as proprietary health systems.

However, recently I was able to briefly look at the "openERP" system suite. It has modules, such as openEMR, that all offer the same user interface and continuity in design. Simply looking at the screen shots demonstrates that this open source software is more robust and developed than others. The user interface is extremely appealing and easy-to-use, which is key for health providers adopting health systems. It is clear that many health providers will end up choosing a proprietary health system simply because they like the look and "feel" of the system. More money is invested into proprietary health systems, making them more aesthetically pleasing. However, openERP and its complimentary modules offer an alternative for FREE that is just or more aesthetically pleasing than some proprietary software.

Another appeal to this openERP/openEMR system is the variety of organizations and individuals that can benefit and utilize the system. Not only will large health care providers be impressed by such a system, but smaller clinics with smaller budgets can also utilize the same system. Developing countries, therefore, are not excluded in the push to adopt health information systems. They can easily access and implement this software package.