title: How to choose an electronic medical record.
abstract: I chose a Windows-based file system over a server-based system with a proprietary database, or a web-based system which has both a proprietary database and which also required a full time Internet connection. My reasoning was that I found it uncomplicated. I was familiar with the Windows interface and it required little effort to enter my existing data and was simple to operate the system. If one laptop crashes, my other computers still work. I don't fear failure of an Internet connection source, a modem or a server, power surges or other possible single points of failure that might prevent my patient care. I can incorporate all document types, I can update jump drives with any needed medical information. I can share information instantly with other systems. I can store my own data in a flexible and open format. I have no maintenance contract and I can make changes in my system or can even change vendors at any time. Last but certainly not least, I do not need a highly trained technical staff to operate or maintain our system.
authors.forename: Bob G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Lanier
mesh_terms: D016494:Computer Security; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D006751:Hospital Information Systems / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000191:economics