What does cloning refer to in a patient's record?

Cloning in the context of a patient's record generally refers to the process of copying information from one encounter to another. This practice often involves pulling forward past information, such as medical history, medication lists, and prior notes, into subsequent visits for the same patient. While this can enhance efficiency and streamline documentation by allowing healthcare providers to review and update established data quickly, it also poses risks if duplicated information is not appropriately modified to reflect the current visit's context.

This method of documentation can lead to inaccuracies if outdated or irrelevant information is carried forward without proper review, potentially impacting patient care. Awareness of this practice is essential for healthcare managers and providers, as they must balance the need for efficiency against maintaining the accuracy and relevance of patient records.