Computers in general practice and the consultation: the health professionals’ view

Abstract

Much research has been done on patients’ attitudes towards the use of computers in general practice consultations, but the attitudes of health professionals require further investigation. Ten out of 21 general practitioners (GPs) and eight out of 11 practice nurses were interviewed or given a written questionnaire to determine their views on the advantages and the potential uses of computers, and their impact on consultations. Professionals had expectations of improved electronic links with the local health authority and hospitals, and access to laboratory results. However, they expressed mixed views on paperless records, and concerns about patient data confidentiality and the effect of the computer on professionals’ interactions with patients. All GPs and three out of 11 nurses approached were strongly opposed to the idea that computers ‘dehumanize’ the consultation. Primary care health professionals would benefit from computer training to have a clearer concept of the full potential of general practice computer systems, and to gain a better understanding of the issues around patient confidentiality.