The computer in group practice--a British experience.

Abstract

This paper describes the author's work experience using a computer in consultation in a large computerised academic practice in Manchester, U.K. Prescribing, preventive health screening and recall, the use of disease registers and billing are common medical applications with proven usefulness. System implementation however is not without problems; the capital cost to the practice, decisions regarding hard and software, the conversion of written to computerised records, access and confidentiality and staff training are issues to be resolved. Computer use may also extend consultation and staff time. It is hoped that this experience will help doctors intending to computerise to focus on applications and implementation issue.