How Are Personal Digital Assistants Used in Hospitals?

Personal digital assistants are electronic devices capable of storing valuable information and performing a variety of functions. Hospital personnel, such as surgeons, doctors and nurses, rely on PDAs to stay in touch regarding their patients.

Communication

PDAs can be used as communication tools. PDA users access their email through an Internet connection, which gives them the ability to send and receive electronic messages. Hospital staff are able to email patient status updates to doctors who are out of the building, so that they may have the latest information on their patients' conditions.

Scheduling

Hospital personnel use PDAs to keep track of their appointments and schedules. This feature allows users to properly organize and manage their days to that they never miss an appointment or meeting.

Data Storage

PDA software programs have the ability to store patient data, order pharmacy prescriptions and access patient information from remote locations, according to a May 2002 article in BNET. This allows health care professionals to always stay connected to their patients, which then enhances the quality of service that patients receive.

Considerations

Storing and accessing sensitive patient information on PDAs requires certain security safeguards to be in place that comply with the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act. HIPAA requires electronic devices to always be password-protected and to be kept in the locked position when not in use.

References

• BNET: Use of PDAs in Health Care Poses Risks and Rewards
• Department of Health and Human Services: Health Information Privacy