RESUMO
Practitioners of rheumatology in the 21st century are increasingly recognizing the benefits of computer technology as they relate to point-of-service care delivered in the hospital or in the outpatient setting. Electronic medical records and other computer-driven aids are resources emerging as affordable tools that can greatly enhance the rheumatologist's ability to provide stellar care, reduce professional and administrative burdens and improve lifestyle measures. Herein, we provide a practical nontechnical introduction to the world of electronic medical records, personal digital assistants, and other computer-dependent tools, with an emphasis placed on how these instruments can be used by the clinical rheumatologist to achieve excellence in medical care.
