PC-based note taking in patient-centred diagnostic interviews: a thematic analysis of patient opinion elicited using a pilot survey instrument

Authors: Barker, Fiona¹; Court, Gemma²

Source: Informatics in Primary Care, Volume 19, Number 1, November 2011 , pp. 51-54(4)

Publisher: Radcliffe Publishing Ltd.

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Abstract:

Background: Computers are used increasingly in patient-clinician consultations. There is the potential for PC use to have an effect on the communication process.

Objective: The aim of this preliminary study was to investigate patient opinion regarding the use of PC-based note taking during diagnostic vestibular assessments.

Method: We gave a simple four-item questionnaire to 100 consecutive patients attending for vestibular assessment at a secondary referral level primary care trust audiology service. Written responses to two of the questionnaire items were subject to an inductive thematic analysis.

Results: The questionnaire was acceptable to patients, none refused to complete it. Dominant themes identified suggest that patients do perceive consistent positive benefits from the use of PC-based note taking.

Conclusion: This pilot study's short survey instrument is usable and may provide insights into patients' perceptions of computer use in a clinical setting.

Keywords: ATTITUDE TO COMPUTERS; PHYSICIAN-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP; QUALITATIVE RESEARCH; VESTIBULAR

Document Type: Case report

Affiliations: 1: Registered Clinical Scientist, Windsor ENT, Princess Margaret Hospital, Windsor, UK. ona.barker@windsor-ent.com 2: Pre-registration Clinical Scientist, Berkshire East Audiology Unit, King Edward VII Hospital, Windsor, UK

Publication date: 2011-11-01

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