Computerization of clinic records: the resource utilization system for a sexually transmitted diseases clinic

A computerized medical case record system, using manual entry into an IBM-AT personal computer, is described. The system was designed for simplicity, widespread acceptability by clinicians, and replacement of clerical procedures as well as for sophisticated data analysis. The major functions include regular production of a register of all clinic clients, summary of individual records for multiple attenders, listings of clients meeting designated criteria, and cross-tabulations involving any three variables on the medical record. Despite greater requirements for data collection and analysis as well as clerical tasks involving data entry, introduction of the computerized system produced a net savings in cost of clerical activities in the first year of operation.