Thursday, March 4, 2010

Computer Medical Careers

Medicine and health care provides a variety of career options. As computers and technology become more pervasive, there are more and more opportunities for people with computer expertise to work in medical settings. Different medical groups, ranging from large hospitals to smaller private practices, all have the need for people to assist and help them with technology.


Data Entry and Transcription


Most physicians generate a tremendous amount of information and notes every day. After each patient, the physician will update his files with test results, notes, and his general perspective on the patient's health. Often physicians will not have the time to write everything down or to enter it into a computer, and as a result, will hire people for data entry and transcription of medical information.


Computerization of Medical Records


One of the newest developments in hospitals is electronic patient records. This would allow the patient's medical history, tests, medications and all other notes and information to be accessible to all medical professionals throughout the hospital. Many hospitals are attempting to switch to computerized records, but this requires a complicated infrastructure and training. Experts in computerized medical records can have a career setting up and training physicians in these systems.


Informational Technology


Most hospitals and medical centers have extensive use of computers for emails and research. As a result, they need professional information technology experts to set up and maintain their computer networks, as well as to troubleshoot and provide technical support for the computer systems.


Medical Billing


Most medical organizations, especially hospitals, have extensive paperwork involved with billing for their expenses. People who work in medical billing need to be experts in using computers to process and keep track of charges; to communicate with patients, insurance companies and the government; and to assist in accounting.


Medical Software


Many physicians and other health professionals use specialized computer programs for a variety of purposes, including keeping records and diagnosing patients. Because few health care workers are trained in computer programming, these software programs are often designed and written by computer programmers with an interest in medicine.

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