John Powell wrote
"I am looking at all options, upgrading hardware has to be essential, but what
software to use is the next question. Should I stick with Microdoc? - recently
bought out, and now "lean and hungry"? or plump for a different system, as many
colleagues have."
In reply to some of your questions about computer systems.
We use the Vamp system which uses a main server and dumb terminals or PCs
acting as intelligent workstations. The software is 8 years old. It works well
but the search functions are limited. You can't easily use it to write referral
letters and the prescribing database is rather clumsy to use. We are considering
changing it
Vamp Vision which is a Windows based system and feels as though it was designed
in the 90s. One advantage is that the appointment book can be computerised.
Anyone with a screen can make and view appointments. I don't know how easily it
blends with other Windows software.
I would be interested to hear from any Vision users myself.
For advice I would ask for comments from GPs about their own systems. There is
also an Emis users group on the Net and a similar page for Vamp. Try the UKPC
home page. I can't remember the URL but I have a link to it from my site
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/ian_quigley
I don't know how you are funding this but remember that the maintenance and
support contract will cost you big bucks for years after you have forgotten the
pain of the initial outlay !
The people who supply the software also supply the hardware but at greatly
inflated cost. It might be worth considering getting your fleet of Pentiums from
a mail order company or even Dixons!
I don't know what you think of Windows 95 but I find it unstable if you want to
run any DOS programs. Now who has DOOM on their machines at work, go on own up !
I also find the Recorder program in Windows 3.1 very useful for creating macros
with which to automate my work. eg I have macros which prescribe for me set
quantities of the 20 drugs I use most commonly. Win 95 doesn't have this
facility.
I hope this is of some use.
Ian



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