Carts vs. Tablets: 7 Considerations When Choosing A Mobile Computing Platform For Your Healthcare Facility

Cart-based laptops, thin clients and all-in-one computers have a long history in healthcare facilities. But tablets like the Apple iPad and Samsung Galaxy seem to be the devices everyone is talking about these days. In fact, analysts expect tablets to outsell laptops by 2016. So how are healthcare leaders to choose which devices to deploy in their facilities? Obviously, any technology decision must be based upon the intended use of the devices and the goals of the deployment. Healthcare providers, therefore, must understand the strengths and weaknesses of the competing devices as they assess the needs of their facilities. Here are seven points you should consider before making the decision to deploy Mobile Computer Carts or Tablets.

1. Identifying Deployment Goals

Although tablets and laptops may be used interchangeably, they have different primary functions. Tablets are designed primarily for media access, and laptops are designed primarily for data entry.

With this in mind, tablets hold great potential for graphic-intensive uses. For example, physicians use tablets successfully for remote medical records access, remote diagnosis, and remote patient monitoring, and as patient assessment tools for mobility-related tasks. Tablets also may be used to deliver continuing medical education and patient education, allowing just-in-time training and widespread mobility.

To continue reading all 7 considerations, download this white paper at the link below.