Tell us about a time when you had to address a discrepancy or error in a patient's medical record. How did you resolve it?

JUNIOR LEVEL
Tell us about a time when you had to address a discrepancy or error in a patient's medical record. How did you resolve it?
Sample answer to the question:
During my internship at a hospital, I came across a discrepancy in a patient's medical record. The patient's name was misspelled, which could have caused confusion and potential errors in their treatment. I immediately brought this to the attention of the medical records team. We worked together to rectify the error by updating the patient's name in the record and ensuring that the correction was reflected in all relevant documents. Additionally, I reached out to the healthcare professionals who were involved in the patient's care to inform them of the correction. This experience taught me the importance of attention to detail and the need to promptly address any discrepancies or errors in medical records.
Here is a more solid answer:
During my internship at a hospital, I encountered a discrepancy in a patient's medical record. The patient's date of birth was incorrect, which could have led to potential issues in their treatment plan. I understood the criticality of resolving this immediately to ensure patient safety. I proactively reached out to the medical records team and provided them with the necessary information to rectify the error. We collaboratively updated the patient's date of birth in the EHR system and all relevant documents, ensuring consistency and accuracy throughout. I also communicated the correction to the healthcare professionals involved in the patient's care to prevent any confusion. This experience further strengthened my attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and demonstrated my proficiency in utilizing medical records technology.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer provides more specific details on the nature of the discrepancy and the candidate's proactive approach in resolving the error. It also highlights the impact on patient safety and emphasizes the candidate's growth in attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of medical records technology. However, it could be improved with additional information on the communication process with the healthcare professionals and the candidate's understanding of the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality.
An example of a exceptional answer:
During my internship at a hospital, I encountered a discrepancy in a patient's medical record that involved a misdiagnosis code. This discrepancy had the potential to mislead future care decisions and treatment plans. Recognizing the urgency, I immediately notified the medical records team and coordinated a meeting with the healthcare professionals responsible for the patient's care. Together, we reviewed the records, cross-referenced the patient's symptoms, and identified the correct diagnosis code. I ensured that the changes were accurately reflected in the patient's medical record, EHR system, and relevant documents. Additionally, I performed a thorough review of other patient records to identify any similar discrepancies and implemented a process to prevent such errors in the future. This experience not only showcased my attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of medical records technology but also demonstrated my ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, prioritize patient safety, and maintain patient confidentiality.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer provides more specific and in-depth details on the nature of the discrepancy and the candidate's actions to resolve it. It showcases the candidate's ability to collaborate with healthcare professionals, perform a thorough review of records, and implement preventive measures. It also highlights the candidate's ability to prioritize patient safety and maintain patient confidentiality. Overall, the exceptional answer exhibits a higher level of expertise and competence in addressing discrepancies in medical records.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Familiarize yourself with common errors or discrepancies that can occur in medical records and their potential impacts on patient safety.
  • Stay updated on the latest developments in EHR software and other medical records technology to enhance your proficiency.
  • Develop strong problem-solving skills by practicing analyzing complex situations and identifying appropriate solutions.
  • Enhance your understanding of regulatory requirements like HIPAA to ensure compliance with privacy laws and patient confidentiality.
  • During interviews, be prepared to provide specific examples of addressing discrepancies in medical records, highlighting your ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and prioritize patient safety.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Communication skills
  • Knowledge of medical records technology

Want content like this in your inbox?
Sign Up for our Newsletter

By clicking "Sign up" you consent and agree to Jobya's Terms & Privacy policies

Related Interview Questions