How do I Check Patient Information for Accuracy?

In a medical facility, it is important to keep accurate records, including patient information. Patient information includes personal contact information, a list of medical conditions, family history, current medications and insurance information. Since patients may move, change their telephone numbers or have new insurance information, it is important to check the information for accuracy. Also, making sure the patient's information is accurate helps you determine the possible causes of illness and disease and treat the patient more efficiently according to the National Institute on Aging; while also ensuring you are paid for your services.

Things You'll Need

• Patient information form
• Identification
• Insurance card

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Instructions

• 1

  Ask the patient when he makes an appointment how long it has been since his last visit. Get his current telephone number and make a note on the appointment screen or patient's chart to request information if necessary.

• 2

  Request an updated patient form if the patient has not visited your facility within the past six months or if any information, such a medical history or medication, has changed. This ensures you receive updated personal, medical and insurance information and have accurate records.

• 3

  Get a copy of a form of photo identification, such as driver's license. Compare the information on the identification with the information the patient provided on her updated patient form.

• 4

  Make a copy of the front and back of patient's insurance card. Contact the insurance by calling the number listed on the back of the card. Use the provider line to verify his insurance information is correct.