Who is allowed to take the history of present illness (HPI)?

The history of present illness (HPI) is a crucial component of a patient's medical assessment, detailing the symptoms and problems the patient is currently experiencing. While it is ideally collected by a healthcare provider who has the training to interpret the information correctly, it is recognized that members of the healthcare team can also play a role in gathering this information.

Allowing anyone on the healthcare team to take the history of present illness acknowledges the collaborative nature of patient care. For instance, medical assistants, nursing staff, or even trained students might gather initial data from the patient, which can later be verified or expanded upon by a physician or a physician assistant. This teamwork helps streamline the patient intake process and ensures that critical information is captured efficiently.

Involving various healthcare team members in taking the HPI can enhance communication and allow for comprehensive care, as different team members may pick up on various aspects of the patient's experience. This holistic approach supports better patient outcomes and promotes a more thorough understanding of the patient's health status.