A computer in the waiting room: who needs the doctor?

Computers have been characterized as impersonal machines destined to take the humanity out of being human. Although computers are machines and can be impersonal, they can also be programmed to be tireless, patient, supportive interviewers or teachers and to give individually tailored feedback and encouragement. This article explores some of the uses of the computer as a physician aid or substitute in patient interviewing and health education. Microcomputers have made this use of computers more accessible to the practicing family physician, but it is the programmer and not just the hardware who will make it a practical reality.