Florida clinic expands trial of patient mobile computers

A Florida clinic has expanded its trial of mobile touch-screen devices for patients by adding internal medicine to the test that began in March with family medicine, according to an email sent to FierceMobileHealthcare. Atlanta-based International Medical Solutions doesn't specify the name of the "top 5 national healthcare provider" that is conducting the trial, but two of the company's three founding partners are at Mayo Clinic Florida in Jacksonville.

Announced in late March and unveiled a week later at the annual HIMSS conference, the Mobile Patient Communicator devices come in 7-, 10- and 12-inch formats. Patients use the computers to check themselves in, fill out medical and medication histories, update previously stored profiles, sign electronic consent forms and read educational material. Following registration, patients can take the computers outside and practice what the company calls "self-rooming." Patients get visual and audible alerts when an exam room is ready, then can follow a map on the screen to find the appropriate room.

While waiting, patients receive multimedia content relevant to their presenting problems and any chronic conditions.

To learn more about the Mobile Patient Communicator and the trial:
- see this press release from March 30