As technology devices become smaller and more affordable, a growing number of physicians are using them to access EHRs. This trend will likely continue throughout the present year, as a new survey found that the majority of practices plan on purchasing a tablet computer.

The survey conducted by The NPD Group revealed that 76 percent of small- and mid-sized practices intend to purchase a tablet computer, such as the iPad, in 2012, according to a DOTmed report. These devices can be used to access patient information from anywhere in the office and are lightweight and portable enough to be carried by physicians throughout the day.

Practices that intend to purchase a tablet are willing to make a significant investment. The average practice expects to spend $6,800 on tablets in 2012, the news source reports. 

Officials from The NPD Group said that tablet computers offer individuals a great amount of flexibility in how they are able to carry out their work, and many employers are determined to capitalize on this. When it comes to the healthcare industry, the trend complements the growing use of EHRs.