First DataBank

First DataBank (FDB) is a leading provider of drug and medical device information in the healthcare industry. FDB offers a comprehensive suite of products and services designed to support healthcare professionals in making precise medication-related decisions, thereby improving patient care. The company's databases are widely used in various healthcare settings, including pharmacies, hospitals, and healthcare IT systems, to facilitate medication decision support, electronic prescribing, and patient safety initiatives.

History

First DataBank was established with the mission to provide accurate and accessible healthcare information to improve patient outcomes. Over the years, FDB has evolved, incorporating advanced technology and expanding its offerings to meet the changing needs of the healthcare industry. The company has played a pivotal role in the development of drug databases and healthcare informatics, contributing significantly to the advancement of electronic health records (EHRs) and clinical decision support systems (CDSS).

Products and Services

FDB's product portfolio includes a wide range of information solutions, such as drug databases, clinical decision support modules, and medical device databases. These products are integral to the operation of healthcare systems, enabling functionalities like drug interaction checking, allergy checks, and clinical guideline adherence.

Drug Databases

FDB's drug databases provide comprehensive information on medication attributes, including dosing, administration, contraindications, and side effects. These databases are essential for pharmacy management systems, electronic prescribing, and medication therapy management.

Clinical Decision Support

The company offers clinical decision support tools that integrate with EHRs and other healthcare IT systems. These tools assist healthcare professionals in making informed treatment decisions by providing evidence-based recommendations and alerts for potential medication errors.

Medical Device Databases

In addition to drug information, FDB also provides databases containing detailed information on medical devices. This includes classification, usage, and compatibility data, which is crucial for managing medical inventories and ensuring patient safety.

Impact on Healthcare

FDB's information solutions have a profound impact on the healthcare industry. By facilitating access to accurate and up-to-date medication information, FDB helps reduce medication errors, enhance patient safety, and improve clinical outcomes. The company's products also support regulatory compliance and operational efficiency within healthcare organizations.

Challenges and Future Directions

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, with new challenges such as data interoperability, patient data privacy, and the integration of genomics into clinical practice. FDB is committed to addressing these challenges by continuously updating its databases and developing innovative solutions that meet the future needs of healthcare professionals and patients.

See Also

• Electronic Health Record (EHR)
• Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS)
• Pharmacy Management System
• Medication Therapy Management