What is a patient flow chart in healthcare?

A patient flow chart in healthcare serves as a tool to track the patient's movement through the healthcare system. It provides a visual overview of each stage of the patient's journey, from initial contact with healthcare providers to various treatments, consultations, and discharge. This helps healthcare professionals and coordinators understand the progression of care, identify bottlenecks in service delivery, and enhance patient experience through improved coordination.

Such a flow chart is essential for optimizing efficiency and ensuring that patients receive timely care. It allows for better communication between departments, ensuring that all team members are aware of the patient's status and any needed actions. This tracking is crucial in managing patient throughput and improving overall healthcare delivery.

In contrast to other options, which focus on specific aspects such as emotional well-being, a treatment regimen, or summarizing past medical information, a patient flow chart specifically addresses the dynamic movement of patients through different phases of care. Its primary role is centered on process management rather than static documentation.