Bill Sugg understands how documentation helps both the organization and the patient.
Providing excellent healthcare extends beyond just the treatment phase. Extensive paperwork and supporting documents can be tedious to complete and file and need to be stored in a safe and secure manner. These files, however, contribute to the overall quality of care for each and every patient. Bill Sugg, a healthcare executive with more than 25 years of experience in the industry, explains why clinical record keeping is an essential duty of reputable medical organizations.
Clinical notes consist of the documented medical history of a patient. Caregivers record relevant information to keep track of patients and use for future reference. Bill Sugg believes that if something is not written down, there is no proof it happened. Maintaining accurate records ensures consistency and builds trust between a patient and their caregivers.
According to Bill Sugg, it should also allow healthcare professionals to better communicate with each other. All staff members involved in providing care should update the clinical note file as needed, and refer to the notes of other physicians. Professionals can use the compiled information to make informed decisions about current and future care.
Bill Sugg states that it also greatly benefits the patients, who do not have to retake tests or try inappropriate treatments. Proper documents also save time and help patients get to the right treatment faster. If patients would like to see their entire medical file, it should be accessible to them. This helps patients keep track of all procedures and treatments performed in the past, which can help them consider what to try in the future.
A reputable healthcare organization will understand the importance of keeping clinical notes, and make sure the practice is properly enforced. Much like other businesses, hospitals can also be audited. Audits are necessary to monitor the quality of services and are useful when serious issues are under investigation. Clinical notes may also be required in a court of law.
With proper clinical note taking, Bill Sugg believes hospitals can maintain excellent quality of care and uphold accountability for their staff members. It truly is a win-win!
About Bill Sugg
Throughout his management career, William T. Sugg, also known as Bill, has worked through almost every major crisis possible in a hospital setting, including deadly tornadoes, floods, fires, scandals and rebuilding the 17th most beautiful hospital in the United States. His leadership style is approachable, transparent, and people-centered. William T. Sugg believes in a strong teamwork culture that promotes respect, trust, commitment, and dedication to goals and values.
