Optometric Management Tip # 250 - Wednesday, November 01, 2006 A Sample History Form
Tip number 248 generated a lot of interest in forms. I made the point of being careful not to require patients to complete so many forms that they become an annoyance, but many readers emailed and asked for sample forms. This is a good reminder that forms and questionnaires are indeed necessary and important administrative aids.
Patient Demographic and Brief History
I’ll share the history form that I use in my practice below. I recognize that eye care practitioners have different philosophies and preferences, so one form will not suit everyone, but this one was designed to meet my goal of making forms easy and quick for patients to complete.
This form is only requested of new patients. It is only completed once. It is reviewed verbally for changes by my staff at each subsequent visit.
This form is available on paper at check-in with a clipboard. The patient is asked to take a seat in the reception area to complete it.
It is brief and easy to complete, which helps us get started quickly with the exam and stay on schedule.
My staff keeps an eye on the patient with a form and if it appears to be difficult, we will offer assistance or take the information verbally in private. Be aware that some people cannot read well or may have severe vision problems. We are careful not to embarrass a patient.
The form is available on our practice website and can be completed in advance if desired. This point is mentioned verbally by my staff when new patient appointments are made.
Additional history is taken verbally by my technician, including current medications.
We have a slightly different form for minors. It replaces the occupation section with questions about school and it has a place for names of parents or guardians.
Sample Form
Date__________
Welcome to Gailmard Eye Center
□ Mr. □
Mrs. □ Dr.
□ Miss
□ Ms. □ Rev.
Patient's name______________________________________________
Name of employer_________________________________ City_______________________
Special visual demands (work or hobbies)___________________________________________
Name of spouse___________________________________________________________________
Please list any members of your household who come to our office
___________________________________________________________________________
Please circle if you have ever had any of the following:
Cataracts | Glaucoma | Lazy Eye | Diabetes | Macular degeneration | Eye infections
High blood pressure | Allergies
Do you smoke? □Yes
□ No
List any other medical problems__________________________________________________
Who is your family physician?___________________________________________________
Have you ever had any injury or surgery to your eyes?
□ Yes
□
No Describe_________________
Have any blood line relatives had glaucoma, or other loss of sight?______________________
Are you allergic to any medications? □
Yes
□ No (List)__________________________________
Do you presently wear glasses? □Yes
□ No
How old are the glasses?________________
When do you wear them?_______________________________________________________
Do you presently wear contact lenses? □
Yes
□ No If no, have you ever worn contacts?
□Y
□ N
Do you have vision care insurance? □
Yes □
No Name________________________________
Do you have health insurance? □
Yes □ No Name and ID number________________________
Please note: Insurance may cover none or only part of your fees. If we do not accept direct payment from your insurance plan, you will pay our office at the time of service and submit your receipt for reimbursement from your insurance company. If your insurance does not pay as expected, you are ultimately responsible for all charges. We cannot be responsible if you are not eligible for benefits. We will be happy to assist you with your claims, please give any forms to the receptionist.
Best wishes for continued success,
Neil B. Gailmard, OD, MBA, FAAO
Chief Optometric Editor, Optometric Management