Cell phones used to view patient records

It's a smart application, for smart phones. Doctors are now using new cell phone technology. Specifically, Treasure Coast doctors are now using their phones to get you quicker and better care.

This used to be a typical day for Dr. Ian Boykin, "In a normal day of rounds, when you come into the hospital the first thing you have to do is ask for a patient list, talk to nurses, check their vital signs." That's the old fashioned, long way. Now, the information he needs is right in his cell phone. Dr. Boykin says, "When I start my rounds I don't even have to stop at the nurses desk. I just go directly to the patients room. I walk in see how they are doing."

It's called H-Care Mobility. It's a smart phone application that puts doctor's patient records literally inside a cell phone. It's a new program on the Treasure Coast. After a year long pilot program, Lawnwood Medical center is now encouraging all 220 physicians to use the software. Jennifer Stewart with Lawnwood Medical Center says, "Eventually that is our goal cause we are shooting for a paperless system." Having patient information on a cell phone is a timesaver and saves paper. The hospital says it's safe and has no fears about hackers. Instead they are just making sure patients understand the technology, and more doctors hop on board.

Not all doctors are excited about the new program. Some say they'd rather stick with a paper trail. Patient records are still all in a computer and can be accessed this way. This software is also being used at St. Lucie Medical Center and Raulerson Hospital. Currently, pilot programs for this application are taking place in Palm Beach and Broward Counties.