What is the purpose of “Clinical Notes” in Epic?

The primary purpose of "Clinical Notes" in Epic is to document patient encounters for continuity of care. Clinical Notes serve as a critical part of an electronic health record (EHR) system, where healthcare providers capture detailed information about patient visits, evaluations, treatment plans, and follow-ups. This documentation is essential not just for providing immediate care but also for ensuring that all members of the healthcare team have access to a patient's complete medical history, which is vital for making informed decisions about ongoing treatment.

Continuity of care is important for maintaining the quality and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. By thoroughly documenting each encounter, including observations and patient-reported outcomes, providers help ensure that the next caregiver has the context needed to provide appropriate and timely care. This practice ultimately supports better patient outcomes and a more coordinated approach to healthcare.

The other options mentioned do not align with the primary function of Clinical Notes. For instance, while updates on hospital policy changes, tracking financial metrics, and summarizing demographics are important tasks within a healthcare setting, they do not provide the direct and immediate support for patient care that Clinical Notes are designed to facilitate.