A national survey to assess current use of computerised information systems in obstetrics

To ascertain the number and type of obstetric computer systems (OCS) in Great Britain, and to ascertain user satisfaction with these systems.

A postal questionnaire was circulated to every consultant obstetrician in Great Britain at the beginning of 1992.

Information was sought on the hardware, software and uses of obstetric computer systems. Satisfaction with, benefits and problems of the system were also assessed.

There was an 87.5% response rate. Of the 264 units questioned, 100 units reported that they had a computer system. Sixty-five units used terminals connected to a mainframe or minicomputer and 17 used stand-alone personal computers (PCs). Local area networks (LANs) were used in 19 units and wide area network (WANs) in 22 units. Software varied from commercial turnkey systems to in-house systems. The quoted annual running cost ranged from 50 pounds to 48,000 pounds. Most units were satisfied with their system. Problems included slow operating times, unreliability, user unfriendliness, deficiencies in training and inadequate customer support services.

Obstetric computer systems are now coming into widespread use. Despite problems, the use of such systems is likely to increase. This survey establishes a database for those units who are considering acquiring or changing their computer system for the purpose of audit or research.