ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a description of the system specification and design, and shows the structure of knowledge representation and system implementation. With the advent of knowledge-based systems, the computer seems to emerge as another viable way of transferring knowledge in a more active form by prompting medical personnel for appropriate responses. Especially for developing countries, knowledge-based decision support systems on rugged and portable personal computers independent of alternating current power supply seem to offer a potential remedy for the problem of transporting medical knowledge to the location where it is needed most. If decision support for diagnosis is requested by the user, the system starts with a question-answer strategy to find an appropriate diagnosis, to suggest a treatment plan, and to give detailed advice about drug prescription if necessary. Primary medical care in developing countries is often provided by personnel with a very heterogeneous level of medical training, commonly called village health workers.
