Medical Office Technology

In the article "Kiosk-Based "Office" Extends Reach of Health Services Providers" by Shannon Brys they talk about a new medical technology. They have kiosk machines people can go to if they don't want to actually go in to see the doctor. They can go to one of the machines and a trained employee will sign you in take a co pay and take you to the machine. From there you go in the unit and log in using your finger print, phone number, and a pin number. Then a specialist will appear on the other side of the screen. They are saying this technology could be deliver care more quickly, conveniently, and cost effectively.

Many simple situations can be handled quickly with one of these machines, such as if you have a cold, sore throat, questions about medications, and many other simple things. There are also nurses that come in to give shots, and use the stethoscope. To set up a time to get to one of the machines you can call the location, go online to schedule, or just walk into one of the locations. These kiosk machines are not meant to take over doctors, but to create efficiencies. The cost of the machine is lower then going to any traditional office.

I can see these kiosk becoming a big deal and making more of them in the future. A lot of people don't like going to see the actual doctor so maybe they would be willing to go to one of the machines to get medicine for a sinus infection or a cold. It would be cheaper to go to a kiosk then it would be to go to an official office but you still pay a co-pay. I think it would interesting if one came to our area.