In pictures: 12 ways the iPad Is changing healthcare

The 2010 release of the Apple iPad opened many eyes in the healthcare industry. For years, physicians and caregivers shied away from incorporating information technology into patient interactions because laptops and computers on wheels (affectionately known as COWs) were so cumbersome. A 10-inch tablet, though, made it easy to access patient records and medical images, look up drug information, schedule appointments and even show patients educational videos at the bedside. (It helps that many doctors bought iPads for personal use.) The new 8-inch iPad mini, which better fits in one hand, is further poised to convince reluctant healthcare professionals to embrace IT. Here are 12 examples of iPad use in the healthcare industry today—and a look at how it may be used tomorrow.