A practical guide for avoiding disaster when computerizing the small rural health clinic.

Abstract

With the advent of the small, personal and affordable microcomputer, the opportunity for purchasing and operating automated data processing equipment in the rural health clinic for medical, administrative and financial functions has become both pragmatic and increasingly popular. Some practical guidelines for clinic administrators seriously considering introducing the computer revolution into their clinic's current methods of operating are discussed. Suggestions are offered for priorities in clinic functional automation, equipment purchasing strategies, and how to evaluate prospective vendors and their products. Some of the potential impacts of computerization on clinic personnel and operation are identified.