Office Administrative Assistant Practice Exam

How should you index the name "Jill Freeman, MD" when there is another patient with a similar name?

1. Freeman, Jill

2. Jill Freeman, MD

3. Freeman, Jill MD

4. MD, Jill Freeman

The correct answer is: Freeman, Jill MD

When indexing names in a medical or administrative context, it is important to follow specific guidelines that aid in clarity and consistency, particularly when dealing with similar names. The correct format in this case is "Freeman, Jill MD." This method prioritizes the surname for sorting purposes, ensuring that all individuals with the same last name are grouped together. In this instance, placing "Freeman" first efficiently aids anyone searching for the individual's record, as it aligns with typical indexing practices where the surname precedes the first name. Furthermore, adding the designation "MD" after the first name maintains the professional title's visibility and relevance, especially in healthcare contexts where title distinctions may be significant. This format respects both the need for alphabetical organization and the inclusion of professional credentials that might be pertinent to the context in which the name is indexed. In comparison, other options either place the first name before the last name, which disrupts this logical ordering or rearranges the professional title in a less conventional manner that could cause confusion in records management. Keeping the name indexed as "Freeman, Jill MD" ensures an efficient and professional approach suitable for an administrative setting in a medical office.