What does HPI stand for?

HPI stands for History of Present Illness, which is a critical component in medical documentation. It refers to the detailed narrative describing the patient's current health concerns, including the onset, duration, characteristics, and associated symptoms of the illness. This information is essential for healthcare providers as it helps in formulating a diagnosis, understanding the context of a patient's condition, and making informed decisions about their care.

By accurately documenting the HPI, scribes and healthcare professionals ensure that essential details about the patient's current issues are recorded, facilitating effective communication and continuity of care among medical teams. The HPI acts as a foundational aspect of the patient encounter, guiding further inquiries and examinations.