10 Ways Computers Are Used in Medicine (part 2)

Here is the second part of 10 Ways Computers Are Used in Medicine. Enjoy. And if you havent read the first part then do it.



Secure Data Storage

Prior to the use of computers,sensitive patient data was kept in filing cabinets that were bulky and easily broken into. Today, computer database technology allows professionals to maintain through patient files secured with encryption routines and even stored off site for extra security and backup capabilities.

Diagnostic Databases
Medicine encompasses a vast field of knowledge that is expanding every day. Computer databases allow doctors to store diagnostic info and make it searchable. This allows medical information from previous cases and peer-reviewed journals to be instantly available to medical professionals at any time and place.

Medical Practice Software
Computer software is used to track and project virtually all aspects of a medical practice. Profit and loss statements, patient files, and billing and insurance forms are all handled using computer software. That streamlines the office work of a medical practice and allows doctors more time to spend with their patients.

Medical Research
Distributed computing platforms are used to run medical simulations in search of cures to diseases such as Alzheimer, cancer, AIDS. This computerized software lets millions of computers join together in a manner that exponentially increases the speed at which potential cures may be found.





Internet Connectivity

Doctors and researches commonly use personal computers for real-time consults and second opinions. This allows for the diagnosis procedure to take less time, which can equate to increased lab results or a life-saving treatment. The use of small computing devices, such as PDAs and smart phones, allow the doctors to perform their work in less technologically advanced areas that do not have landline Internet connects.

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