In message <[log in to unmask]>, "R.Beaumont" <Robin.Beaumont@ne
wcastle.ac.uk> writes
>I noticed something on GPUK which hinted that training was not to
>good for GP systems.  Has anyone got some interesting stories?

Could we broaden this a bit? I'm convinced that there is a serious - and
increasing - problem in general practice IT. Personal experience at the
end...
1.GP systems are complex - and are introduced into practices where its
possible - even probable - that the highest level of computer experience
will be with the kids' games machines.
2. Training *cannot* cover the range of possible hard and software
problems that may arise - or even the range of facilities in the system!
(see stories at end..!) :->
3. IT expertise is too expensive for most staff budgets - and even if
you can afford to employ an IT guru, - would he/she/it understand the
claims-and-payment systems of the NHS?
Suppose you find and train a treasure - how long will you be able to
keep this paragon?
>
>The suppliers seem to try to stop users learning the system rather
>than facilitating them.  Any comments?

I think part of the problem lies with the *timing* of training - and the
fact that no expert can *believe* the depth of ignorance possible among
apparently intelligent customers.Have you had a mechanic trying to
explain why your car went wrong.. if you don't like cars and don't
understand electronic adaptations of the internal combustion engine?
It seems fine to teach everything at once - at the beginning,when you
need it.
How much do you retain, when all the training is at the beginning?
>
>Has anyone had any training they consider excellant with regard to
>exporting data to other applications?
>
no
>How about developing a practice training strategy for the following
>year e.t.c.??

I'm working on one now (plus practice manual) .. any offers of
collaboration?

PS personal experience...
when we first had our system, one terminal went blank when asked to
print a prescription.One bright partner finally spotted there was no
cable between the printer and the terminal... there was also a problem
with loose conections elsewhere..
some partners had discovered a "patient's problem list"(all active
problems), while others had found how to list all coded entries . No-one
had discovered both!
everything else is just *too* embarassing.. it must be wonderful to be a
propeller-head! :->
Mary

>
>Any comments would be most welcome.
>Robin Beaumont
>Lecturer in Health Informatics
>University of Newcastle upon Tyne
>21 Claremont Place
>Newcastle upon Tyne
>NE2 2AA
>
>Tel: 0191 222 5625 or 5668

--
Mary Hawking
Kingsbury Court Surgery
Church Street
Dunstable
Beds LU5 4RS
tel:01582 601289 (home)
    01582 663218 (surgery)
fax:01582 476488 (surgery)


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