The state of automated information systems in ambulatory health care

The development of moderately priced microprocessors has led to a new and complex set of information processing alternatives within the healthcare sector. Small group practices and some solo practitioners now find it technologically possible and economically feasible to automate some parts of their information system. With the introduction of this new and highly complicated technology comes a series of opportunities and problems for the healthcare consumer and provider. The article examines a number of the issues related to computer utilization in the ambulatory care setting.