[Qualitative approach to the attitudes and expectations of doctors during the process of computerising primary care].
OBJECTIVE
To find the attitudes and expectations of doctors during the process of computerising primary care (PC).


METHODS
Qualitative investigation through discussion groups.


METHODS
Thirty-one doctors from the two PC regions of Gipuzkoa.


METHODS
Intentional stratified sampling by regions and by experience in using a computer in the consulting-room. Five discussion groups with recording and transcription of the contents with prior authorisation and guarantee of confidentiality. Qualitative analysis of the notes and transcriptions with the help of computer back-up. Validation through sending of results to participants and discussion between the authors.


RESULTS
Introducing computers into PC consulting-rooms had repercussions both on the ordering and contents of the information recorded. The effort <<to know what is being done>> was not accompanied by subsequent evaluation. Notable deficiencies in management of the computerising process were perceived. Computer use created additional symbolic effects for both patients and doctors.


CONCLUSIONS
Computerising PC is a process whose repercussions on medical care are far from neutral and so require rigorous discussion and evaluation. Defining step-by-step and measurable objectives, transparency in management and the promotion of evaluative research would all favour the effective development of projects to computerise PC.
Calderón
C
C
Centro de Salud de Alza, Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Donostia-San Sebastián. alzabib@chdo.osakidetza.net
Rotaeche
R
R
Carrera
C
C
Larrañaga
M
M
Merino
J
J
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001292:Attitude to Computers; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008492:Medical Informatics Computing; D008875:Middle Aged; D010820:Physicians; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013030:Spain