What all this means to physicians Among the abundance of material that is readily available on the Internet is medical information. Educational pieces for both physicians and patients are accessible and useful. In the near future, computer networking is likely to directly affect physicians by changing the reimbursement process. Electronic submission of claims is available and is already being used by the large healthcare institutions. Almost certainly, electronic filing will become a requirement, so significant changes will be needed in the business offices of even small practices.
Many people feel that they save personal time by using the Internet.
Users can plan trips, purchase tickets and other products, and make banking transactions. They can also dial in to read the latest news or check up and comment on legislation that is pending in Congress. Discussion groups have been formed around virtually every interest, from the arts to gardening to tennis. Whatever your passion may be, you can chat about it with fellow enthusiasts across the globe. My aim in coming columns is to look at a number of issues related to computers and the Internet.