The Moroccan medical file between practice and politics: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: the medical file is a key element of quality, reflecting good hospital management. Many steps have been taken through its history leading up to computerization. This Process allows the sharing of files with both the health staff and patients, while respecting the professional confidentiality between parties. However, in Morocco, as is the case in other countries that are unable to computerize all their hospitals, it is necessary to study first the medical file in paper before proceeding with its computerization. The purpose of our study is to describe the state of the hard copy medical record in our Host University and international hospital, Cheikh Zaid in Morocco. Methods: that is a cross-sectional study that lasted for three months in Cheikh Zaid hospital. The collection of data from this institution was based on the evaluation of 100 medical records of inpatients, seeing as they respond to our study criteria and requirements better than outpatients. Said evaluation was inspired by a clinical audit grid recommended by the High Authority for Health (HAS). Extraction of the results is done using the SPSS 13.0, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Visio software. In addition, we used the observation method to correct the errors found. Results: the results showed that 75% of the files are in good condition and well organized. However, administrative documents were missing in 70% of the cases (national identity card, health insurance card and copy of the patient's consent form). Moreover, in 83% of cases, the identity of the person to be notified in case of complications and the consent form were missing. It is also the case for the discharge report. The latter is incomplete in 97% of the cases. Also, the file transfer data from one service to another were missing in 82% of the medical files. Conclusion: according to the results, improving the medical file is necessary both administratively and medically. Thus, all parties, including doctors and nurses must be aware of their tasks and roles in this process. Despite the advances in the computerization of the medical file in several hospitals in Morocco, the maintenance of the hard copy version remains unavoidable and still necessary, to protect the rights of both the patient and his medical staff.