A simple, low-cost computerizedminirecordsystem (minimal essential record) has been in operation at theJohns Hopkins Medical Clinicsince mid-1975. The system has three primary components: (a) theMinirecordwhich contains a listing of problems and medications, plus information about visits to other clinics, (b) anappointment systemused to organize materials prior to clinic encounters and assist in the follow-up of high risk special patients, and (c) anencounter data systemto prepare reports used for management, quality assurance and training. This paper describes the system's operation, and reports on its utility and cost.