Patient records are stored on computer databases in the medical field. The medical history of a patient includes physical symptoms, diagnoses, treatments, and even family medical history. Details of the medications prescribed are stored together with details of any that can not be prescribed, such as an allergy to penicillin. Appointments are scheduled using a computer database. Billing information is also stored. Hospitals and surgeries depend on computers for administrative and financial functions.
Computer storage can house vast bases of knowledge such as journals, documents, research papers and reference books. The information stored is more easily accessible in an electronic format than hard copy.
Hospital monitoring equipment is often based on computer programming. Emergency alarms, bed beeping systems and X-ray machines are all examples of equipment using computer technology. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer tomography (CT) employ computer software. High-resolution images are achieved with the use of sophisticated computers and infrared cameras.
Some surgical procedures are even computer guided. An example is laparoscopic surgery, where the surgeon inserts the medical tools and a small camera, and conducts the operation with the help of computers and monitors. Computers also monitor heart rates, pulse rates and brain readings. It would be virtually impossible for a human to do this.
Computer networking facilitates fast communication. Doctors on opposite sides of the world can communicate instantly via the internet. Images and messages can be exchanged in seconds and conclusions can be reached speedily.
Computers are also used in the medical field in the manufacture of medications. Patients benefit from readily available information on the internet. Computer applications help in research studies. Computers are a must have in every medical profession.