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Apple Launches the iPad - What are the implications for healthcare?

28Jan2010
Chris Paton's picture

Today Apple launched it's new flagship product the iPad. The device is similar to an oversized iPhone or iPod Touch. It has the feel of a tablet PC but without the overhead of a processor and memory hungry operating system which - going by the videos - seems to allow for a light-weight and responsive device.

 

To me, this looks like a very good option for use in healthcare:

 

- It has a smooth surface that can allow it to be wiped clean.

 

- It has an impressive 10 hour battery life.

 

- It is very intuitive and easy to use.

 

- There are already hundreds of medical applications designed for the iPhone and iPod Touch that are ready to go.

 

There has already bee quite a lot of buzz about the the possibility for these devices in healthcare.
Read Write Web has a nice overview with some good discussion in the comments:
Motion, who make the Mobile Clinical Assistant tablet PC have been quoted by Computer World as saying the iPad has a number of issues that will reduce it's potential for use in healthcare environments:
Karen Day's picture

Apple launches iPad

Submitted by Karen Day on Thu, 04/02/2010 - 15:06.

Mmmm, nice! Would be perfect when they can make it big enough to view x-rays and see enough detail and small enough to keep in the pocket of a doctor or nurse.