by Kelly Sigler

Created on: August 01, 2008   Last Updated: August 20, 2008

Today's physicians undoubtedly have some of the most important jobs in the world. They shoulder the responsibility for the very lives of their patients on a daily basis, from delivering a new life to consoling the family of a life that has passed. No one can argue that doctors have strenuous, but ultimately fulfilling careers. The vast world of technology is quickly improving the quality and convenience of medical gadgets, to assist those who help others. Here are five advancements that every tech-savvy doctor should put on their wish list this year.

ELECTRONIC PRESCRIPTION SOFTWARE
This incredibly handy software is actually free to register for online. Electronic Prescription Software allows a practitioner to write a legible prescription for medication, and have it sent directly to a participating pharmacy. This software also allows you to connect with your client's records and will automatically show you any medications that are not compatible with the patient's current meds or allergies, and can automatically detect dosing errors. Check out www.allscripts.com for more information.

IN-OFFICE KIOSKS
An in-office kiosk is basically a computer station set up in your waiting room, where patients can check themselves in, confirm their insurance carrier, and even use a credit card to pay their co-pay online. Airlines have had this technology for several years, allowing clients to avoid long lines, and saving time for workers, but it's still a relatively new technology in medical practices. www.galvanon.com/medikiosk/ provides some helpful information on additional services offered for these products.

DIGITAL VOICE RECORDERS
Imagine speaking into a device instead of taking notes, and later having every word you said instantly transformed into neat, typed notes. Ranging from $30 to $500, these digital voice recorders can come loaded with features, or simplistic in nature, but they all get the job done. You just talk into this small, handheld device, then hook up to a voice-to-text recognition software, such as Dragon Naturally Speaking. Sony sells digital voice recorders, and www.talktoyourcomputer.com offers many more options, including the voice-to-text software.

WIRELESS HEADSETS
Wireless headsets are becoming more common in today's techno world, especially as some states are banning cell phone use while driving. A wireless headset allows you to communicate with your office on the way to or from work. You can answer phone calls, access messages, give instructions to staff, and set up appointments while you commute. Plantronics in California markets a collection of wireless headsets with noise-canceling features that fit over users' heads or around their ears for $20 to $420 each. Try www.plantronics.com to see which headset will work best for your individual needs.

MEDCENTER
The MedCenter is a new product from Sabal Medical that makes providing patients' medications safer and more time effective. The MedCenter is a mobile medication cart that eliminates unnecessary trips to the medical cabinet, provides a detailed audit trail, and is small enough to roll into the patient's room. Unique, electronic rotating trays deliver only the specified medication to the caregiver, to significantly reduce medication and dosage errors. www.sabalmedical.com

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