Alec Holt | PubMed Health

PubMed2003

Anxious about electronic health records? No need to be.

Every day the takeover of paper records by electronic versions seems more inevitable. Many of us who have used the paper version, despite its limitations, are anxious about new technology with its different challenges. In this paper we discuss aspects of both types of record and identify some of their weaknesses and strengths. Whilst there is little science to support one version over the other, the health industry is undoubtedly moving to adopt an electronic record. In writing this paper we aim to reassure clinicians that the electronic record is, on balance, likely to enhance the quality of their professional practice.

Computer Security↗

PubMed2002

Hand-held computers in healthcare: what software programs are available?

The technology sector of healthcare is entering a new evolutionary phase. The medical community has an obligation to the public to provide the safest, most effective healthcare possible. This is more achievable with the use of computer technology at the point of care, and small, portable devices could fulfil this role. A PriceWaterhouse Coopers 2001 survey on information technology in physician practices found that 60% of respondents say that physicians in their organisation use personal digital assistants (PDAs), compared with 26% in the 2000 technology survey. This trend is expected to continue to the point where these devices will have their position on a physician s desk next to the stethoscope. Once this electronic evolution occurs, doctors will be able to practice medicine with greater ease and safety. In our opinion, the new generation of PDA mobile devices will be the tools to enable a transformation of healthcare to a paperless, wireless world. This article focuses on uses of PDAs in healthcare, whether by the registrar, consultant, nurse, student, teacher, patient, medical or surgical director. Current PDA healthcare software is categorised and discussed in the following five groups: 1) reference/text book; 2) calculator; 3) patient management/logbook; 4) personal clinical/study notebook; 5) utility software.

Computer-Assisted Instruction↗