Documentation

Term from Therapy industry explained for recruiters

Documentation in therapy refers to the important practice of recording patient care information, treatment plans, and progress notes. It's like keeping a detailed diary of patient care that helps track progress, communicate with other healthcare providers, and fulfill legal and insurance requirements. Good documentation tells the story of a patient's journey through therapy, showing what was done, why it was done, and how the patient responded. This is sometimes also called "Clinical Documentation," "Treatment Notes," or "Medical Records."

Examples in Resumes

Maintained detailed Documentation for 40+ weekly patient sessions

Implemented new electronic Documentation system to improve efficiency

Achieved 100% compliance rate in Clinical Documentation and treatment notes

Created streamlined Treatment Documentation protocols for the department

Typical job title: "Documentation Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Clinical Documentation Specialist Medical Records Specialist Health Information Specialist Documentation Coordinator Clinical Records Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a new documentation system across a large therapy practice?

Expected Answer: Should discuss change management, staff training, ensuring compliance, setting up procedures, and maintaining quality while transitioning.

Q: How do you ensure documentation meets both clinical and legal requirements?

Expected Answer: Should explain understanding of healthcare regulations, insurance requirements, and how to balance detailed clinical information with compliance needs.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements do you include in a thorough therapy progress note?

Expected Answer: Should describe key components like treatment provided, patient response, progress toward goals, and plan for next session.

Q: How do you handle documentation for complex cases with multiple providers?

Expected Answer: Should discuss coordination between providers, clear communication methods, and ensuring consistency in documentation.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of documentation in therapy practice?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic purposes like tracking patient progress, communicating with other providers, and meeting legal requirements.

Q: How do you ensure patient privacy in documentation?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic HIPAA requirements and confidentiality practices in record-keeping.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic documentation formats and requirements
  • HIPAA compliance understanding
  • Simple progress note writing
  • Basic electronic health record usage

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex case documentation
  • Quality assurance reviews
  • Training others in documentation
  • Insurance requirement knowledge

Senior (5+ years)

  • Documentation system implementation
  • Policy development
  • Compliance program management
  • Staff training and supervision

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Poor attention to detail in written communication
  • Lack of understanding of privacy laws
  • Unable to explain basic documentation requirements
  • No experience with electronic health records
  • History of documentation compliance issues

Related Terms