Ask HN: Self-Checkin Terminals for Doctors

1 momoelz 4 8/16/2025, 7:27:26 AM

Imagine self checkin terminals similar to that of mcdonalds for doctors offices to replace or reduce the amount of staff needed?

Flow in europe: Client enters the office, puts in the e-card, and enters why he is here, gets a ticket for his place in the queue. His turn, goes to the doctors room, gets the service. Leaves the doctors room, goes to terminal puts in e-card and receives receipt for medication or what ever is due.

This is just a simple overnight idea, not thought through but a starting point. Looking to hear your feedback.

Comments (4)

herbst · 10h ago

What the person at the desk actually does when I check in:

- Check in docs or with doctor if any tests need to be taken prior visit. And takes tests

- Glance at my history and ask follow-up questions for prior visits and medications. Informs the doc.

- On a prescription asks me for other medicaments that could raise cross issues (very important step here)

- Actually gives me the medication (might be a swiss thing)

2 of 4 things an AI can't do. And 4 things I don't want a computer to do.

momoelz · 10h ago

Don’t you think that all of this can be done by AI?

Why don’t you want computers to do it?

gus_massa · 4h ago

In some cases (at least here in Argentina) the staff checks that the health insurance cover (partially) the cost of the visit and that the patient has all the correct forms and whatever is necessary. Also, open the door, so the doctor can start with the next patient immediately.

herbst · 8h ago

I am pretty sure AI can, at this point in time, not take any blood tests, hold a complex feedback loop with a busy doctor, nor do I want to put any blind trust into its health suggestions.

But that's me and as OP said, not everyone has the luxury of a working medical field.