Abstract: Objectives: To establish a patient-oriented structured electronic follow-up system, which could ensure the standardization, systematization and homogenization of the platform. Methods: The follow-up system for discharged patients was devised through adoption of the unified modeling language as well as structured analysis and design in the light of the information management system currently employed by the hospital and the practical needs of patients. Results: The system which is easy operate, possesses multiple functions including automatic introduction of follow-up information, doing query and search, making follow ups and appointments, data collection and analysis. Since the use of the system, the average follow-up time for each patient decreased from 6.50 minutes to 3.87 minutes, and the follow-up efficiency of nurses was significantly improved. The follow-up rate of discharged patients increased from 31.20% to 42.34%. The completion rate of the follow-up target was 100.00%. Conclusion: The structured follow-up system could improve work efficiency and the quality of follow-up.

Key words: structured; discharged patients; follow-ups; development; application