Medical records play an integral part in client and pet care. They're primarily intended to benefit patients by recording
the care recommended and provided. They also serve as legal documents in court. So it's important to keep records accurate
and up-to-date. But just who needs to log what when? Here's the answer—regardless of whether your practice is paperless or
paper-heavy.
What: Client and patient details (name, mail and e-mail address, phone numbers; pet name, reason for visit, species, breed, age,
gender, reproductive status, color, distinguishing markings, microchip)
Who: Receptionist
When: For new clients, collect all this information when they initially schedule appointments, then confirm it when they arrive.
Verify existing clients' contact information when they schedule a visit, and, if they make their next appointment before leaving
the practice, double-check their contact information before they head out. Why: Clients appreciate when you greet them and their pets by name. For drop-off or hospitalized patients, you must collect owners'
information in case you need to contact them for an emergency, and doing so as soon as clients walk in the door ensures you
remember. An accurate address is essential for billing purposes as well as for follow-up contacts, such as reminders. Patient
details also allow veterinarians to prepare and, later, help ensure appropriate treatment.
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