Final answer:
The major disadvantage of alphabetic medical record filing is that it is time-consuming to file records. This system may also cause issues when names are misspelled or changed and when dealing with common names. Additional identifiers may be needed to ensure accurate record retrieval.
Step-by-step explanation:
When using the alphabetic system of medical record filing, a major disadvantage is that it is time-consuming to file records. This system requires sorting patient records by last name, which can be slow, especially when dealing with large volumes of files. Additionally, if a person’s name is misspelled or changed, it can lead to difficulties in locating specific records, requiring a revised or additional cross-reference system. Another issue is that the distribution of names may not be even, leading to imbalances in filing space requirements. Lastly, there might be confusion over common names which require additional identifiers to differentiate between patients with the same or similar names.
Considerations for health records policy:
- How can the cost of treatments and diagnoses be managed while maintaining high-quality patient care?
- What strategies can be employed to maximize patient quality of life through health records management?
- What measures should be taken to ensure the protection of individual privacy when handling health records?