This is an example of instructions for reports can be tailored to the systems, processes, and objectives used by your organization. These detailed instructions allow any employee to start where another employee finished and allow for efficient onboarding of new employees. An electronic folder and a hard-copy binder are kept for all reports so that they can be updated as the EHR has updates, or as staff is hired.

This example is specific for a behavioral health report for an organization, but can be used as a template for any of your organization's report instructions.  It covers the what, where, when, why, and how.  The first section, the what provides employees with a short description of what the report is.  The where gives the file path, and any other location information necessary.  The when is important, as it  lets the employee know when it needs to be done every month so that it can be disseminated in a timely manner for meetings or external reporting.  The why gives the rationale, and lets the individual know why it matters to the patient, the staff, and/or the organization.  Finally, the how is addressed by the numbered, step-by-step instructions that follow.  

These five elements can be tailored to the systems, processes, and objectives used by your organization, with this example serving as a guide.