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Medical reference databases used by Army primary care physicians in field environments
M D Harris1, B Johnson, T Patience
1Schweinfurt Health Clinic, CMR.
Military Medicine
|November 20, 1998
Summary
U.S. Army physicians primarily use books for field medical references, but desire improved digital tools. Current resources limit the quality of care provided in deployed settings.
Area of Science:
- Military Medicine
- Medical Informatics
- Information Science
Background:
- Deployed U.S. Army primary care physicians face unique challenges in accessing medical reference materials.
- Effective medical reference tools are crucial for maintaining high-quality patient care in field environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify current medical reference material usage among deployed U.S. Army primary care physicians.
- To determine desired characteristics for future field medical reference resources.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was distributed to U.S. Army primary care physicians.
- Response rate was 60% (445 out of 740 surveys returned).
- Data collected on current reference material use, satisfaction, and desired features.
Main Results:
- 96% of physicians use books, 37% use journals, and 11% use computer software.
- Satisfaction levels were highest for books (72%), followed by journals (61%) and software (45%).
- The Merck Manual was the most frequently used book; desired features include broad coverage, ease of use, and light weight.
Conclusions:
- Physicians value medical reference databases but find current options limiting for field practice.
- There is a clear need for enhanced, user-friendly, and portable medical reference solutions for deployed military personnel.