Medical record innovations that can improve physician productivity.

Medical records are the fulcrum of patient care activities. They represent the primary reference point with respect to the patient's medical status and long-term planning. A significant portion of the patient care dollar is invested in the medical record document and its handling. The most critical part of this process takes place in the physician's examination room during the patient encounter. The use of SmartCharts is a way to expedite the chart generation process and improve the quality and consistency of the source information from which all future care and plans are generated. The process removes a substantial portion of the human memory cycle that is needed for chart development and improves the encounter process by exploring the full range of diagnostic signs and symptoms that are associated with a preselected diagnosis or patient problem. The system is designed for stand-alone operation or insertion into an already-functioning electronic medical record system.