Decision Systems has developed and clinically validated a product marketed under the tradename TeleMinder - a microcomputer -based automated telephone messaging system designed to improve patients health care services. First, it is used to telephone and remind patients of: a) upcoming appointments, b) preventive healthcare activities such as influenza vaccines, and c) cancer early detection tests. Second, it is used in health management to monitor and preemptively treat complications associated with: a) chronic illness, such as hypertension and diabetes, b) outpatient recovery after surgery, and c) adverse reactions to new medications. Finally, TeleMinder is used to automate lab results reporting. The firm has also developed a rapid response, high call-volume, automated voice messaging system called TeleMinder-MAPs which displays a map of the community. Designed for fire, police, and sheriffsâ offices, users outline areas on the map and then automatically telephone community members in these areas. As an emergency fire and OES response tool, TeleMinder is designed to: a) notify and evacuate citizens prior to or during a disaster, b) monitor the status and provide instructions to large numbers of citizens during an emergency or disaster, c) coordinate follow up services after a disaster, and d) routinely monitor the well being of citizens who are homebound. Also used as an emergency response tool in law enforcement, in routine, day-to-day use, TeleMinder is used by police departments to: a) provide community voice bulletin boards to answer frequently asked questions, b) automate staff briefings, c) maintain close communication with Neighborhood Watch Programs, and d) routinely phone senior citizens and shut-ins; by District Attorneys Offices to contact and either confirm or cancel scheduled court appearances; by Fire departments to: a) advise citizens of fire hazards, b) direct disposal of toxic materials, c) announce clean-up programs, and d) maintain OES./volunteer personnel and equipment preparedness
