I have found both similarities as well as differences between medical facilities of different sizes and how these facilities choose to organize patient files and how loose papers are handled. Regardless of the size of the medical facility; each facility prefers to have all of the patient’s paper work to be anchored securely in each patient’s chart. By having all of the patients paperwork secured in the patient file, this will eliminate the possibility of losing or misplacing paperwork. This also allows for each patient record to be neatly organized and can be easily viewed by all medical staff. Medical facilities file patient records differently. Depending on the size of each facility there are a few different ways to file patient records. Some facilities use the patient’s last name, and others may choose to file by patient number. Facilities may also organize patient files differently; again, depending on the size of the medical facility medical records can be organized in the following ways. A patient’s chart can be organized by visit with the most recent visit filed on top (or first). Other facilities may choose to file patient charts by report type, and or by categories. Large facilities such as a hospital may choose to file patient charts by categories or report type instead of by each patient’s visit. You may see in a patient’s chart that is organized by categories or report type, headings such as, lab reports, physician notes, and physician orders.
Even though there are many similarities and differences on how medical records are organized and file patient records, it is up to the medical office or physician on how they organize patient records. It should be based on the needs of the medical office, and what works best for them. After careful review of classmate’s interviews, as well as my own, I have made the conclusion that medical