The computer-oriented paperless operating room

1. As the need for faster data entry and extrapolation increased at Hinsdale Hospital, several problems were identified with the paper system: It was slow, cumbersome, and inaccurate. This was particularly evident in patient scheduling, patient billing, and inventory control. Hinsdale decided to work toward total computerization of patient charting, billing, scheduling, and supply management. 2. After months of research, countless site visits, and interviews with software representatives, Hinsdale selected a Minneapolis-based software company. The software package that was implemented was composed of five modules: Surgery Scheduling, Personnel, Supply, Dynamic (Broadcast), and InterOperative (Patient Charting). 3. Computerization demands both time and patience by all involved--in both the decision process and the physical installation. There is no blueprint available to make this process an easy one. However, there are resources and consultants that can and should be used.