Handheld Computers for Doctors

This book addresses four main topics: What is a handheld computer?

Abstract

Mohammad Al-Ubaydli, MD, a Visiting Research Fellow at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) in Washington, DC, recently has published an information guide entitled Handheld Computers for Doctors. A handheld computer, also known as a personal digital assistant (PDA), is defined in this report as “a computer that is small enough to hold in your hand, or keep in your pocket.” This book addresses four main topics: What is a handheld computer? What utility does it provide for personal organization and clinical information management? What are some practical applications of networked handhelds in the clinical setting? How does an individual become a successful handheld computer project champion? The book is arranged into three sections that are well organized to address these questions. The first section, termed Why Star Trek Is Science Past, is clearly targeted at clinicians who are skeptical about the technology or who recently became new users of handheld computers. Dr. Al-Ubaydli provides insight into choosing basic hardware and software, and covers both Palm and PocketPC handheld computer environments. Some of the general functions covered include personal organization (calendar, address book, and notepad), Internet access, electronic book options, and, of course, games. The section also addresses basic tools available on handheld computers for clinical information management, including structured outline tools for scientific lectures, patient data management capabilities, and medical reference documents.