No cost software for microcomputers: a shareware or public domain MS-DOS data manager for adverse drug reaction tracking.

Abstract

IBM PC, XT, AT compatible computers have created a small revolution in the way we work, pharmacy procedures notwithstanding. In many instances the microcomputer software packages used are expensive and often difficult for inexperienced users to learn within reasonable periods of time. Public domain software, or shareware concept of software distribution, is an alternate means of obtaining good quality programs that are free to PC users, or cost very little upon final registration. This article describes a high efficiency, easy to use data management system that can serve a great variety of purposes within the pharmacy including tasks such as adverse drug reaction tracking, patient profiles, or inventory control. The flexibility and ease of operation makes this and other similar programs often wise choices as compared to expensive, fully relational commerical microcomputer data management systems.