Paper-Based Medical Records
Paper-based medical records are traditional physical documents used to store patient health information, including medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and administrative details. They involve handwritten or typed notes, forms, charts, and reports stored in physical files, typically organized in filing cabinets or dedicated storage areas within healthcare facilities. This system relies on manual processes for creation, retrieval, and management of health data.
Developers should learn about paper-based medical records to understand legacy systems in healthcare, as many institutions still use or transition from them, requiring integration with digital tools. It's relevant for projects involving data migration, electronic health record (EHR) development, or compliance with regulations like HIPAA that govern both paper and digital records. Knowledge of this methodology helps in designing user-friendly interfaces that mimic or improve upon paper workflows for healthcare professionals.