Internal Medicine Practice Patient Flow Protocol

1. Pre-Visit Process

Registration & Check-In

• Verify insurance and demographic information
• Collect copayments and outstanding balances
• Update patient contact information
• Have patients complete necessary forms
• Scan insurance cards and ID

Initial Vital Signs

• Blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Temperature
• Respiratory rate
• O2 saturation
• Height and weight (BMI calculation)

2. Clinical Assessment

Medical Assistant/Nurse Workflow

1. Review reason for visit
2. Document current medications
3. Record allergies
4. Note chief complaints
5. Complete screening questionnaires as appropriate

Physician Examination

• Review patient history and vital signs
• Conduct physical examination
• Order necessary tests
• Document findings in EMR
• Develop treatment plan

3. Post-Visit Process

Clinical Documentation

• Complete all necessary chart documentation
• Process medication orders
• Generate referrals
• Schedule follow-up appointments

Check-Out

• Provide visit summary
• Schedule follow-up appointments
• Process specialist referrals
• Provide educational materials

4. Quality Metrics

Time Standards

• Check-in process: ≤ 10 minutes
• Waiting room time: ≤ 15 minutes
• Exam room wait time: ≤ 10 minutes
• Provider visit time: 20-30 minutes
• Check-out process: ≤ 5 minutes

5. Special Considerations

Urgent Cases

• Establish clear triage protocols
• Maintain dedicated urgent care slots
• Define escalation procedures

Telehealth Visits

• Follow separate virtual visit protocol
• Ensure proper documentation
• Maintain video visit quality standards