Implementing a specialty electronic medical record to document a life-course developmental model and facilitate clinical interventions in spina bifida clinics.

This article describes the utility of a spina bifida-specific electronic medical record (SB EMR). Standardization and pooling of data through the SB EMR will facilitate development of increased knowledge for advancing interventions for SB treatment, rehabilitation, and support. Integration with a Web-based transition tool will enhance the efficiency and efficacy of interventions delivered by clinicians. The SB EMR may also be used by SB clinic staff to manage and monitor the developmental course SB through childhood and the adolescent years. Further, implementation of the SB EMR in conjunction with the life-course model will assist in the transition of young persons with SB to adult roles.