Investigating the need for clinicians to use tablet computers with a newly envisioned electronic health record

Abstract

Our study generated several recommendations for the use of tablet computers with new health information technology tools being developed. Continuous connectivity for the mobile device is essential to avoid interruptions and clinician frustration. Also, making a physical keyboard available as an option for the tablet was a clear desire from the clinicians. Larger tablets (e.g., regular size iPad as compared to an iPad mini) were preferred. Being able to use secure messaging tools with the tablet computer was another consistent finding. Finally, more simplicity is needed for accessing patient data on mobile devices, while balancing the important need for adequate security.

Mobile Health Application Framework for an Ideal User Experience: A User-Centered Design Approach for Clinicians

“…It is evident from the literature that the mHealth studies are utilizing the Smartphone's efficiency as a tool for clinician-patient communication, healthcare educational reference and key information resource for patients as well as providers [6]. Furthermore, recent studies show positive patient perception of physicians who use Smartphones in the clinical setting regardless of the patient age, race, gender or income.…”

“…Furthermore, recent studies show positive patient perception of physicians who use Smartphones in the clinical setting regardless of the patient age, race, gender or income. A user-centered approach is the key to the success of any mobile healthcare app [6].…”

Computerized Care-Pathways (CCPs) System to Support Person-Centered, Integrated, and Proactive Care in Home-Care Settings

“…Designing and developing computerized health systems without engaging users as partners in the process often result in major system failures not always related to flawed technology but rather to lack of consideration of clinical workflow and human factors. 13,14 User involvement into the development, testing and evaluation process of systems make these systems more suitable to user needs and desires/expectations. [15][16][17][18] Considering user experience in the design/development process is thereby important for technology acceptance and enhancing its usefulness.…”

Future Mobile Device Usage, Requirements, and Expectations of Physicians in German University Hospitals: Web-Based Survey (Preprint)

“…A fundamental component of the operationalization of mHealth is the usage of mobile devices, especially smartphones and tablets, by patients or health care professionals. The central areas of utilization of mobile devices in hospitals are (1) oral and written communication [11][12][13][14][15]; (2) documentation, organization, and information [16][17][18][19]; (3) decision support, notifications, and alarms [20][21][22][23], (4) education and professional training [24][25][26][27][28]; and (5) self-monitoring by physicians [29]. Taken together, physicians use mobile devices to assure their own decisions in a clinical environment and to increase efficiency in their workplaces [30].…”