Effects of a fingerprint reader on survey responses of primary care patients

Given the potential of patients using computer programs in health care settings, we studied the effect of a fingerprint reader on responses to a computerized health screener. We randomized 76 primary care patients into two conditions: (1) fingerprint reader prior to screener; and (2) control condition. Overall, the reader was well accepted and those who used it had more positive attitudes toward using it than those who did not. The fingerprint reader had a positive effect on reporting low fruit and vegetable intake and poorer health status, but no effect on reporting physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake or being overweight.