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iPad Initiative
FAQs

FAQs

Frequently asked questions are listed and explained below. The contents of this page will evolve as the program goes live and continues to grow. Thank you for your patience as we continue to build on the information provided.

For setup assistance, please refer to the Tips for iPad document.

Why can’t I update my apps?
Apps that have been installed by the UNC School of Medicine need to be updated through the Self-Service app.

  • Open the Self-Service App
  • Navigate to the Check-In App – click “Reinstall”

All additional apps that you have downloaded to your iPad can be updated through the Apple App store.

Can I add or delete apps on my iPad?

Can I add an app on my iPad?

Yes! Make it yours. However, there are space limitations, so it will not hold a lot of media (songs, movies, photos). We strongly suggest you keep it as a professional device, as well.

Can I delete an app on my iPad?

If you try to delete an app that has been installed by the UNC School of Medicine, the app will only temporarily disappear. All student iPads are enrolled in a mobile device manager that helps the School of Medicine push and pull apps to students. Every evening device management system will run an update, ensuring all iPads enrolled have the same configuration. After the update runs, the deleted app will reappear on your iPad.

All additional apps that you have downloaded to your iPad can be deleted and will not reappear after the update.

Does my iPad work as a second monitor?
Sidecar requires a compatible Mac using macOS Catalina and a compatible iPad using iPadOS 13:

Sidecar instructions from Apple Support.

If you are using a PC or have an older Mac or iPad, you can consider using Duet Display.

What do I do if my iPad breaks?
Unfortunately, the iPads do not have AppleCare or other forms of insurance. Thus, it is highly recommended to use appropriate precautions, including using the iPad case that the UNC School of Medicine provided to you. Cost of device replacement will be discussed on an individual basis, though students may expect to be charged if appropriate precautions are not taken (not using a case, careless, etc.).

If your device breaks or is non-functional, please submit a Service Now ticket.

What happens if my iPad is stolen/lost/broken?
Unfortunately, the iPads do not have AppleCare or other forms of insurance. Thus, it is highly recommended to use appropriate precautions, including purchasing an iPad case/cover. Cost of device replacement will be discussed on an individual basis, though students may be expect to be charged if appropriate precautions are not taken (not in case, careless, etc.).

If your device breaks or is non-functional, notify

Can I change the name on my iPad?
We understand your desire to change the name on the iPad, especially for situations such as using Airdrop to share information. In situations such as this, we recommend temporarily changing your iPad’s name to recognize other student devices.

Unfortunately, you are not able to permanently change the name on your iPad. All student iPads are enrolled in a mobile device manager that helps the School of Medicine keep track of the devices and remote wipe the device if it is lost or stolen. Every evening the device management system will run an update, any changes to the naming convention will be reverted to the original name.

When will I use all the apps?
First Page: Here you will find the apps and productivity tools that you will utilize throughout all years of medical school.

Second Page: In general, these apps are discipline specific and will be used more in your clinical years.

We strongly recommend reviewing the iPad Video tutorials which provide basic tips and guidance on how to use the iPad on specific rotations.

How do I connect to the classroom screen? Can I use my iPad to print a patient list to a hospital printer?
Yes, through EPIC.
How do I use guided access?
Guided Access limits your device to a single app and lets you control which features are available. You can turn on Guided Access when you let a patient use your device, or when accidental gestures might distract you.

Guided access setup from Apple Support.

What are the security requirements for using the iPad?
Security precautions are required as students will be accessing patient sensitive information. Thus, each device must be guarded with a passcode and touch ID. Additionally, every device will be enrolled in JAMF, which is a mobile device manager that helps us keep track of the devices and can remote wipe the device if it is lost or stolen. Violation of these security measures will result in honor court violations and any punishment imposed.
What kind of security violations are you talking about?
You are obligated to keep all patient information private. Keep a passcode and fingerprint ID. Do NOT allow others to use the EMR under your name. Do NOT take a photo or screenshot of patient information. If you use your device to add a photo to the EMR, use the appropriate service (Haiku for EPIC).
What are some good apps to add?
I put most of them of the great free ones on your device already, though there are some paid (and free) that come recommended by students and faculty.

Password manager – LastPass. There is a free version, but probably worth the $12 for an annual subscription. This comes highly recommended.

Essential Anatomy 5 – $25. Thorough, interactive, student-recommended. e-Anatomy app is already on device which is provided by HSL, but a less polished experience. Alternatives are 3D4 apps, Orca Health apps, Visual Anatomy 3D, Virtual Human Body.

ASCCP – Cervical cancer screening guides – $10 app. PDF is free and on device already, so only for heavy users.

MedEquations – $5 – nice interface, thorough yet not obscure. Qx Calculate is on the device and there are also calculators in MedScape. Alternative – MedCalX

Books! – There are many good ones, Bates has a nice $55 version, though there is a not-so-nice free one via HSL. You can search iBooks and find many (i.e. – Brachial Plexus).

Note-taking – On the device is OneNote and the usual note pad. For those who heavily expect to use and organize notes and documents, the best product by far is Evernote, though there are subscription fees/month. Evernote masters can rule the world.

Fitness tracker – consider adding MyFitnessPal or something else to keep you in shape!

Reading app – Pocket and Instapaper are the leaders. These save and store (non-medical) articles for your enjoyment later. Both free.

Office/Productivity – Microsoft and Apple office suite products are free for download, but they are large and slightly slow.

Organization – Wunderlist and Toodledo are both excellent to do list applications.

Is the iPad an infection risk?
Yes, just like any other device. When using it for patient care, be sure to use good hand hygiene.

 

For general iPad information, please refer to Apple iPad Support.

For video tutorials, please refer to: iPad Video Tutorials.

Information on professionalism with iPad usage can be found in Professionalism and iPad Use.