There’s no doubt about it. There are many advantages when it comes to owning an Apple iPad. As an 8′-10′ tablet computer, consumers consistently rave about the fact that it’s lightweight and portable; it’s got a state of the art multi-touch screen and there are an insurmountable amount of applications for people to choose from. So, when you think about the convenience that an iPad provides, it should make sense that more and more businesses, including medical offices, would find them to be highly beneficial. However, if you work in a medical office and you’re still not fully convinced, here are some things that may help you decide:

It makes a more effective workspace. Probably the greatest perk in using an iPad is how it can help to make your office run more efficiently. Due to the many functions that it features, owning one (if not several) can reduce the amount of paperwork that’s filled out, provide easier access to patient files and records, and it’s also really great for note taking. Using it to type in patient’s notes not only means it’s quicker when it comes to dictating information, but it also makes it easier for other staff members to read what’s been documented.

It has a convenient camera. There are many times that while a patient is being examined or a file is being evaluated, a picture must be taken. Although the older versions of the iPad did not have a camera, the iPad 2 has two that are built-in. It even has a high-definition video recorder. This kind of tool provides a way to video chat with other doctors or patients, which can save the time that it make take to schedule a personal meeting to share test results that do not require in-person follow-ups.

It frees up more time (and space) for pharmacists. Been considering getting a pharmacist degree? An iPad can make your career that much easier. For years, sales reps had to travel, sometimes extensively, before presenting their products to doctors. An iPad makes it more convenient for them to send information and answer any immediate questions that the medical staff may have regarding their products, even if it can’t always be in person. In having the need to use less printed training manuals, pharmaceutical companies can save hundreds of thousands of dollars by being more environmentally-friendly. And, by going the electronic route with their materials, they are able to edit and update information more efficiently.

It can make the waiting room experience better. iPads are able to play music. Putting several iPads in your office (along with earplugs) can provide patients their own personalized music enjoyment as they wait. iPads also have game applications. This is a really favorable plus for when there are children waiting with you.

It’s great for patients. In a lot of ways.What patients tend to look forward to the least is the amount of time they have to wait before seeing their doctor. Aside from its entertainment options, an iPad can be uploaded with videos, tables and charts and animated features on how to improve one’s health in a variety of areas. It can also help teach patients on how to ask specific questions as it relates their personal ailments and recommendations for treatment. In having several available, patients can also check email and browse the Internet to pass the time. An iPad calendar is an easy way for patients to schedule their next appointment too.

Editor’s Note

Thanks to Evan Fischer for this quest post. He is a freelance writer and part-time student at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California.