The Gateway

I develop DOD Alternative Input Method (AIM) forms that help clinical personnel chart the subjective and objective sections of an encounter within AHLTA and AHLTA-T.

AIM forms are graphical representations of templates. They help streamline the data entry process of an encounter since similar data elements, such as options and text boxes, can be grouped together within tabs.

Recently, I developed an AIM form to help flight medics in Afghanistan capture patient data during medical evacuations, as well as document point of injury information. Throughout the development process, I worked closely with MC4's clinical consultant and deployed technical staff to fine-tune the form to the customer's needs and requirements.

Depending upon the complexity and requirements of an AIM form, the development time can take up to three weeks. Typically, I receive a paper version of a form with the request to digitize the information. AIM forms are based upon MEDCIN terms, a standardized medical vocabulary used with electronic medical recording systems. Consequently, the paper version does not always easily translate to the electronic counterpart.

Occasionally, the MEDCIN terms limit the functionality of the form compared to the robust nature of Web-based forms. For example, the flight medics I worked with wanted to include radio buttons in one section of the medevac AIM form, but the buttons did not associate with MEDCIN terms. As a result, I changed the response option to a text box so that the information would populate the encounter.

I also have some flexibility during the development process to alter the labels associated with the various options within the AIM form. I can change "diabetes mellitus" to "diabetes." Such a change does not alter the information passed to the note, but it does make the form easier to use and understand.

Another benefit to AIM forms is that they easily port from AHLTA to AHLTA-T. Providers can utilize their favorite AIM forms, regardless of the program they use to document outpatient records.

Editors Note: Contact your local MC4 representative to request assistance to develop new AIM forms for AHLTA-T. Garrison AIM form requests vet through the Army Capability Command Forum (CAF) via the Regional Chief Medical Information Offices and medical specialty consultants.

Diane Stinson, Application Developer for the Office of the Surgeon General Army Medical Department Chief Medical Information Officer, Falls Church, Va.