Medical Director, PracSoft3 and Blue Chip use Microsoft SQL Server to store patient data.
SQL is an acronym for 'Structured Query Language' - it is a language for interacting with databases. SQL does not really describe the database itself but rather the method of accessing the database.
It is a type of database technology that is the most widely used. The data is stored in a very structured format that provides high levels of functionality. It provides for 'SQL' access to the data. SQL databases are generally more robust, secure and have better performance than other older database technologies. HCN uses Microsoft SQL Server databases.
The SQL Database and the SQL Server software run on the Database Server. The SQL database files are secured, protected and accessible ONLY by the SQL Server software. The SQL Server software is responsible for protecting the integrity of those files during all database operations. Each workstation accesses data by asking the SQL Server software for it. This is quite different from the current situation where workstations directly access the database files themselves, as these files are shared network files.
MD3, PracSoft3 and Blue Chip include Microsoft MSDE, a free version of Microsoft SQL Server that has specific restrictions, namely a maximum database size of 2 gigabytes and a concurrent 'transactions' governor. There is no limit to the number of users however the SQL Server governor reduces performance when more than 8 concurrent 'transactions' are being processed.
What this means is that the performance of the database has been limited and not the number of users who can access it. MSDE may be suitable for up to 15 users but obviously each practice will differ in their performance requirements. If MSDE does not provide sufficient performance an upgrade to MS SQL Server can be implemented, making it feasible to evaluate MSDE in use before committing to software expenditure. For further information please contact our Helpdesk or consult your IT technician if you are unsure of your practice requirements.