ABSTRACT
When the personal computer became more accessible, people from all walks of life rushed to acquire their computer before deciding why it was needed or what they intended to do with it. Many general dental practitioners (GDPs) acquired machines and used them to produce their accounts or payrolls. Inevitably some GDPs are more technology literate and will adapt to the use of computers more quickly than others. A sensible practitioner will ensure that all staff attends suitable training courses to understand and to operate the system correctly and effectively. Practitioners should be able to operate the system themselves. It would be wise to carry out proper research before buying any hardware or software. Whether the equipment is leased or purchased is a question of personal choice in most instances. From April 1991, the GDP can have a computer system that will electronically transmit claims from the surgery computer via a telephone line to the Dental Practice Board.
