The basics:
- A desktop computer usually has a standard configuration consisting of a CPU (the "brain box"), monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
- It is stationary -- that is, it resides in one location and cannot be moved from room to room.
- It can stand alone or work with any of a variety of network arrangements.
Advantages:
- Desktops are low-cost and available from a wide variety of vendors.
- Because desktop PCs are standardized, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to find spare parts and support, or to replace a machine.
- Desktops will run just about any software you need.
- Additional devices such as microphones, speakers, and headsets are readily available at low cost.
Disadvantages:
- Because it's stationary, you need to buy a desktop PC for each room in which you need access to your EHR software.
- Desktops typically have a larger footprint -- that is they take up more space than a laptop or tablet PC. While flat screen monitors and tower units save actual desktop space, the standard desktop computer requires more room than either a laptop or tablet PC.
- You must purchase additional equipment to take full advantage of voice recognition and/or handwriting recognition programs.
What your peers have to say:
"Have had wired computers [desktops] in the exam room since 1998 and think it is the best way. I find it less hassle than carrying a computer around all day, worrying about batteries running out or losing wireless connectivity or dropping the computers. The computers are much cheaper both to buy initially and fix if something does happen. Tried a tablet but did not like it all. Never had a problem with children or adults interfering with the computer in the examining room and if you log out when you leave, HIPAA is not an issue."
-- Keith Stafford, MD, Greenville, SC
