A survey of computer usage amongst Auckland general practitioners

Auckland general practitioners were surveyed to assess their use of computers. Forty-eight practitioners (9.6%) had computers which were primarily used for practice administration. The main benefit offered by the computer was an improvement in quality of work rather than a reduction in quantity. Areas of dissatisfaction revealed by the survey included cost, limited flexibility, and the consequences of computer failure. Although most respondents suggested improvements in specific areas, many felt that the age of computerised general practice had arrived.