Methods of Medical Record Storage

Medical records contain all of a person's important medical information. They are collected throughout a person's entire life. They contain information regarding an individual's medical history, medications, allergies, tests and test results. A medical history is a list of all known diseases, conditions, surgeries and problems. Medical records are kept at doctor's office.

Open Cabinet Shelving

• Open cabinets provide a way for storing medical records. They are made of shelves where paper medical record files are stored. Shelves are deep enough for the files to fit in easily and securely. Dividers are added to allow for organization and easy access. This method of storing medical records allows files to be sorted into alphabetical order making individual files easier to locate. This style of storage can be customized to any size allowing it to fit any area.

Filing Cabinets

• Filing cabinets provide a way to store medical records. Dividers can be added as a way to separate and organize records. These cabinets have the ability to be locked providing privacy and security. Records stored this way can be organized in alphabetical order. Filing cabinets are available in a variety of sizes and styles. They can be kept in the doctor's office to store current patient files.

EMR

• Electronic medical records (EMR) are medical records that are computer files. They are stored on a doctor's office computer, special software, hospital networks, discs and memory stick. This type of file requires minimum storage space needing only enough room for the computer system. Storage areas like cabinets and drawers are used to store discs and memory sticks. Health care providers easily access files stored on computers.

Record Room

• Record rooms are created at hospitals, clinics and physician practices. These rooms may contain various methods of storing medical records such as filing cabinets or open cabinets. They may contain larger filing cabinet or shelves used to store larger records including X-rays and scans results. These rooms are typically used in hospitals to store the large number of medical records they accumulate. Record rooms provide an opportunity to allow restrictive access by the use of locks. Lock choices include electronic key, keypad and traditional lock and key.