In addition to being decent typists, they can use computer templates that offer a standard format to enter data. M. Anthony Albornoz, FACP, acting chairman of the department of medicine and chief of rheumatology at Mercy Catholic Medical Center in Darby, Pa., uses templates he created with word processing software. Templates also minimize the amount of typing needed. When New York City gastroenterologist Barbara Kapelman, FACP, sees established patients, she simply updates a copy of an old note. It's in there, so you don't have to keep retyping it.
Templates also prompt physicians to ask certain questions during patient histories.
It helps me do the things I have decided I want to do for my patients. However, physicians who don't allow patients to deviate from the template order may find that the doctor-patient relationship suffers. You can get wrapped up and just do the computer thing rather than take care of the patient. Other physicians say that technology can actually improve communications. Several physicians involve patients in creating their notes, letting them watch as they update the record to make sure the details are right.