EncaptureMD reports are created using a word processor and results are often sent via HL7 to other systems. If the other system can handle PDF files, the reports should look identical in that system. If they take only text, then EncaptureMD has to create a text-only version and sometimes adjustments need to be made on either side.
There are a few possible causes if the other system can only take plain text:
- HL7 modifies the message: In transit, characters are stripped or modified by HL7 relays or the EMR/HIS/RIS
- HL7 line limits: HL7 has a line length character limit. 72-80 characters is common. Any line longer will wrap.
- Proportional fonts: The destination system attempts to display the report with a proportional font.
Note, this only applies to HL7 text-only reports, not those sent as PDF or by other means.
HL7 modifies the message
For the best results, EncaptureMD text reports should be transferred without modification. Spaces or other special characters should remain intact where possible. Some characters like "|" or "<" and ">" may cause problems because they are part of the HL7 protocol. The EncaptureMD editor attempts to filter out reserved characters, especially during a copy and paste operation from Word or similar word processors which contain substantial formatting and special characters.
HL7 line limits
Systems vary in their line capacity. If the line is too short it will wrap and the remainder of line one will end up on line 2. The report will essentially double in length with partial lines.
The solution is to format the EncaptureMD report with shorter lines. Go to http://www.encapturemd.com/support.html to enter a support ticket if required.
Fixed-width vs. proportional fonts
A fixed width font is like a typewriter. Every character takes up the same amount of horizontal space. To make a table, the user could just space or tab and columns would align. A proportional m is much wider than an i.
EncaptureMD plain text uses fixed width fonts in order to achieve the proper spacing of indents and tables. However, if the destination system uses proportional fonts (most fonts today are proportional) then that spacing will be disturbed. It may be as simple as changing the display font. Helvetica or Arial are proportional. Courier is fixed. Please see the examples below.
NOTE: Every EMR/HIS/RIS is different. It may not be possible to change the font. It may be a preference or setting or it may allow you to select the font via a drop down menu. Please consult with your EMR/HIS/RIS vendor or a local administrator to find out how to change a font.
The following example is exactly the same text. Only the fonts are different.
Example: Proportional
Right Left
Maneuvers Sympt Response Sympt Response
Seated No Normal No Normal
Hyperabduct/extend both arms No Normal No Normal
Hyperabduct/extend right arm No Normal No Normal
Hyperabduct/extend left arm No Normal No Normal
Adson right No Normal No Normal
Adson left No Normal No Normal
Neck flexion No Normal No Normal
Neck hyperextension No Normal No Normal
Costoclavicular maneuver No Normal No Normal
90 degree abduct/extend rotator bilat No Normal No Normal
--------------------------------------
Fixed:
Right Left
Maneuvers Sympt Response Sympt Response
Seated No Normal No Normal
Hyperabduct/extend both arms No Normal No Normal
Hyperabduct/extend right arm No Normal No Normal
Hyperabduct/extend left arm No Normal No Normal
Adson right No Normal No Normal
Adson left No Normal No Normal
Neck flexion No Normal No Normal
Neck hyperextension No Normal No Normal
Costoclavicular maneuver No Normal No Normal
90 degree abduct/extend rotator bilat No Normal No NormalSolutions (in order of preference)
- If possible, change the font in the destination system to be fixed-width (Courier, Elite, etc). This is the best solution.
- Find out of the destination system can support either HTML or PDF reports. If it can, use those instead.
- If all else fails, some of our applications can be configured with single column tables or inline information that makes the report longer but is more readable.