Sympmed I: Computer program for primary health care

Sympmed I is an experimental computer program that identifies and offers treatment to outpatients whose symptoms can be effectively and safely treated. To verify the safety of using such a package an evaluation of Sympmed I was carried out. The patients' symptoms were entered into the computer by a junior doctor and then by a non-medical person, an engineer. The prescriptions offered by the program were compared with those given by a general practitioner after examining the patient. The results of the evaluation confirm that most problems seen by first level medical personnel in developing countries are simple, repetitive, and treatable at home or by a paramedical worker with a few safe, essential drugs, thus avoiding unnecessary visits to a doctor.