Computerized patient records: the patients' response.

A large primary care HMO health care center in Chandler, Ariz, has utilized a comprehensive computerized patient record for the past 2 years. The patient flow through the center is described in detail. Patients (n = 126) completing an automated medical record office visit were surveyed at random to determine their response to the computerized record. Results indicate patients are convinced that our use of the automated record helps us be more familiar with their medical history, providing a strong mandate to continue the project. The patients expressed some concerns about confidentiality of automated records, and about computer-related distractions that may occur during a visit.