The introduction of personal computers into clinical cancer research in Norway.
Present and estimated future use of personal computers (PCs) in clinical cancer research was assessed after the distribution of 24 personal computers to clinicians and scientists engaged in clinical cancer research. Two questionnaires were sent to the clinicians with an interval of six months. The clinicians were divided into two main groups, 'Experts' and 'Non-experts', based on their background knowledge of and previous experience with computers. Word processing and recording of patient details were the main application fields for the PC. Requested tasks for future were the performance of statistical analyses and graphics. The clinicians, especially the Non-experts, met the following problems upon the reception of the PC: Lack of time and help to become acquainted with the PC, as well as lack of appropriate software. Half of the clinicians were reluctant to admit any usefulness of artificial intelligence for clinical cancer care. It is concluded that the introduction of personal computers will probably improve the facilities for clinical cancer research. However, clinicians need sufficient time and help to get started, and appropriate software must also be provided.
Fosså
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Norwegian Cancer Society, Oslo.
Aagedal
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D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology; D008838:Microcomputers / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009664:Norway