Describes challenges encountered in converting clinical practice guidelines for asthma into electronic decision support software. Presented at annual mtg of AHRQ, Sept 08.
23. Human vs software “minds”: No tolerance for ambiguity Can tolerate ambiguity Precise meaning of words required Approximate meanings of words OK Counterfactuals not possible Counterfactuals entertained Linear, step-by-step “ Gestalt” Series of nested and explicit if-then statements Fast, unarticulated thought processes Software Humans
33. Different words for same ideas: I thought my child would die ED visit Exacerbation My top number on the meter What you can and should be able to blow FEV 1 actual vs. predicted Purple inhaler Daily controller Long-acting beta agonist Ordinary: Clinical: Academic: