When using Dragon Medical speech recognition solutions, there are three main microphone or voice input options usually used: (1) headset microphone, (2) handheld microphone and (3) a digital recorder. While I have tested lapel, array, boom and desktop microphones, their accuracy with Dragon does not measure up to my demands and I would only suggest their use if one of the first three is not possible. Please contact me (Alexandria Carstens) directly to discuss these options any time.
Which of the first three voice input options (headset, handheld or digital recorder) is most suitable for a medical practitioner depends upon several factors.
Proximity to Computer
If you will seldom be situated in front of a computer, the best option would be to use a digital recorder. Once completed, transfer your dictations electronically (via FTP, LAN download, or email) either to an assistant for Dragon transcription or to a specific location on your network from which Dragon will automatically transcribe.
If you are often or always in front of a computer, either a headset microphone or handheld microphone would be most suitable as you will be able to dictate directly into an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) solution or a Word Processing (WP) document.
Frequency & Length of Dictations
If you dictate frequently throughout the day, a handheld microphone would allow you to simply pick up the microphone, perform your dictations, and then set the unit aside when finished. Some physicians find the act of securing a microphone headset to their head throughout the day bothersome.
If you have lengthy dictations, a headset microphone will ensure that the microphone is consistently placed throughout the dictation, which results in increased accuracy. Holding a handheld microphone for lengthy periods often causes “arm drift”, situating the microphone in a position that is not optimal for Dragon.
Need of Hands
If you require your hands to navigate other software applications while dictating (i.e. radiologists), a headset microphone will leave you hands-free to perform these additional tasks.
If you only require one free hand, then a handheld microphone will suffice.
Button Press Macros & Automated Tasks
If you wish to press buttons to perform automated tasks or macros (i.e. navigate through EMRs), a handheld microphone such as the Philips SpeechMike will allow you to do this. The Philips SpeechMike line offers a SpeechMike with several programmable buttons and another with additional programmable buttons.
If you do not mind voicing commands to perform automated tasks or macros (i.e. saying “new script” to initiate a new prescription in your EMR), a headset microphone will be adequate.
Wired vs. Wireless
There is much hope for wireless technology, but wireless does not provide the flexibility most medical practitioners desire. Physicians wish to use the same wireless unit across multiple PCs, and so far, this is not feasible.
Wireless is available for headset and handheld microphones, and is useful for those who do not wish to be tethered by a wire or need to move around the room (i.e. during an examination).
Which Microphone is Best for You?
Please contact Alexandria, and she will be happy to consult with you on an optimal Dragon Medical speech recognition solution from Speakeasy Solutions.
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