Using computers to work smarter--a guide for GPs.
BACKGROUND
Computers have many uses in general practice, but to get the most out of them requires commitment of time and money.


OBJECTIVE
This article describes some of the most important benefits of computers, but also indicates some of the difficulties in their use which can be overcome with simple strategies.


CONCLUSIONS
Realising the benefits of computers requires a positive mindset which welcomes their role in improving the quality of patient care and the efficiency of general practice.
Department of General Practice, School of Primary Care, Monash University, Victoria. peter.schattner@med.monah.edu.au
Peter
P
Schattner
D000555:Ambulatory Care Information Systems; D001315:Australia; D003200:Computer User Training; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D005194:Family Practice / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D011216:Practice Management, Medical; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D014584:User-Computer Interface