auto notes for extensive procedures

[jrpappy]

I'm still trying to find the right way to input my new patient examination information in a simple checkbox fashion. I tried sheets, but found it time consuming to set up a very long form using a scanned image with lots of text/check boxes. Making any changes to the form would require redoing the entire form. Also, the sheets are not secure and can be edited or deleted by anyone in the system.

I decided to try auto notes. I think it could work well, with a few slight problems. I'm not sure how to request the features, so I thought I might explain them here. Jordan, if you get to this posting, maybe you can suggest how I should phrase the requests, if the changes are even possible. My goal is to have some of our longest forms ready to go so that we can eliminate scanning and shredding.

My problems with auto notes: 1. if a user makes a mistake, he can't backtrack (a back button would be nice), 2.the input window sits directly over the auto note, so that the auto note can't be seen. The input screen can be repostioned, but moves back with every selection, 3. the auto note being created doesn't autoscroll, so that for very long auto notes, unless the input window is very specific, the user doesn't know what question is being answered

Thanks in advance

[jordansparks]

What kind of form is this? It sounds like staff is filling it out rather than patient. Is that correct? I'm just trying to imagine why such a complex note would be needed. Are you talking about soft tissue exam, perio exam, PARQ, etc? Can you give me an idea of what goes on the form?

Yes, you have listed out most of the annoyances and shortcomings. I don't think there's a request yet for repositioning the input window for autonotes. I could be wrong. I think I just approved a request for copy/paste on sheets so that you could quickly add a bunck of checkboxes. Have you thought about skipping the checkboxes? How about just taking your scanned form and turning it into a sheet with not changes? Then, just mark checkboxes with a stylus or mouse. I guess for the textboxes, you would have to type or else have a nice tablet PC with a touch screen.

[jrpappy]

It's sort of an involved form that includes room for text such as history and chief complaint, then a lot of checkboxes and fill-in blanks for muscle, joint, soft tissue, occlusal, and perio exam. I've customized it so that it gives me the info I find interesting, and makes it easy for any one of my staff members to follow along and quickly fill in form. The form is about 3 pages long, which includes lots of room for written notes.

It may be easier in this case to simply scan the form in and shred after. Not as elegant, but simplicity is nice too!

[jordansparks]

I'm going to agree in this case.