Just what the doctor ordered

Clinicians are embracing new technology on the East Coast, with the local District Health Board placing an order for several new C5v Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA) tablet PCs from Motion following a hugely successful trial.

The Tairawhiti DHB, which covers the eastern tip of the North Island including Gisborne, was overwhelmed with the popularity of the healthcare-specific technology among its staff, according to IT Infrastructure team leader, Max Ponomarev.

"Immediately after testing a demo our clinicians requested we implement the Motion C5vs as soon as possible," Ponomarev says.

"I can't remember them ever being this enthusiastic about a new technology.

The DHB initially tested laptops, but found the devices did not meet the specific requirements of medical institutions.

With the C5vs, currently in use in Gisborne Hospital's Paediatrics Ward, clinicians found they were able to write directly on the screen, and use the integrated cameras to take photos of patients while interviewing them.

The portability of the tablets also allowed staff to update patient records and access DHB services such as patient discharges, outpatient and operating theatre information from anywhere in the hospital.

The Hospital's general paediatrician, Dr Shaun Grant, says the tablets save time on ward rounds and allow doctors to make decisions on the spot.

"The C5v PCs have improved and streamlined the way doctors work, which the patients and their families appreciate as well.

Go here for more information on the Motion C5v MCAs.