What type of information is typically included in the demographic section of a patient record?

The demographic section of a patient record primarily includes identifying information that helps to distinguish one patient from another. This section typically contains the patient’s name, date of birth, address, and insurance information, as these details are essential for patient identification, appointment scheduling, billing, and insurance claims processing.

This foundational information is crucial in ensuring accurate record-keeping and providing appropriate care. For instance, the name and date of birth confirm the identity of the patient, while the address might be needed for various administrative purposes, such as sending appointment reminders or medical correspondence. Insurance information is vital for billing and determining coverage for services rendered.

Other options focus on different aspects of a patient’s medical history or personal contacts, which, while important, do not belong in the demographic section. Medical history and current medications pertain to the clinical aspects of the patient’s health and are recorded separately. Emergency contact details, although relevant for patient care, deal with who to reach in case of an emergency and fall outside the basic demographic data. Similarly, past surgical procedures and family history contribute to the patient’s medical history rather than demographic information.