I spent 10 years working as a phlebotomist, and during that time, I saw just how much computers have become a part of daily life in healthcare. From the moment a patient walks in the door to the moment their lab results get sent to a doctor, technology is involved every step of the way.
Every day, I used computer systems to:
Log patient information
Input lab orders
Track and label blood samples
Communicate with doctors and lab techs
It’s amazing how much smoother and safer everything runs when these systems work well, especially when you’re dealing with something as important as someone’s health.
Why Computer Literacy Matters in Healthcare
In a field like healthcare, being comfortable with technology isn’t optional anymore, it’s essential. It’s not just typing or checking emails. Healthcare workers today need to know how to:
Navigate electronic health records (EHRs)
Operate lab and diagnostic equipment
Send secure messages and updates to other departments
Schedule, track, and verify orders without delays
When staff members are confident with technology, it reduces errors, improves communication, and helps patients get faster, more accurate care.
The Next 10 Years: What’s Coming
Looking ahead, I think healthcare is going to become even more tech-driven, and in a good way.
Wearable tech like smartwatches and glucose monitors already let patients track their own health at home.
Cloud-based systems will likely become the norm, allowing multiple healthcare providers to access real-time patient data from anywhere.
Computers will get even faster and more portable, making things more efficient across hospitals and clinics.
The Role of AI in Healthcare
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already starting to make an impact. For example:
AI tools can read X-rays and scans
Predict disease risk based on patient data
Help reduce burnout by automating repetitive tasks like charting
According to the National Institutes of Health, AI in healthcare is expected to improve diagnostic accuracy and free up healthcare workers to focus more on direct patient care (Jiang et al., 2017).
“AI won’t replace doctors, but it will help them work smarter.”
Final Thoughts
Technology has become the backbone of modern healthcare, and I’ve seen firsthand how vital it is. Whether it’s helping a patient get their lab results quickly or letting a doctor access up-to-date medical records instantly, computers keep everything connected. The more we embrace these tools, and learn how to use them well, the better care we can provide.
📚 Reference
Jiang, F., et al. (2017). Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Past, Present and Future. Stroke and Vascular Neurology, 2(4), 230–243. https://jianglab.ucsf.edu/sites/g/files/tkssra4531/f/wysiwyg/artificial_intelligence_in_healthcare.pdf
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