Writing all prescriptions by computer.

The information needed for safe prescribing is voluminous, complex and subject to continuous change. The computer makes an ideal instrument on which to store, access, and update general practice prescribing information. By using a desktop computer to check and write all prescriptions, it is possible for the general practitioner to build up a medication data base which has the capacity to record response to treatment and to supply information which can be reported to a remote central drug authority on a regular basis.