[Accordion] Overview
Required and optional fields work together to ensure essential information is captured while allowing flexibility for additional details when needed. This balance keeps records accurate, complete, and easy to manage. The examples below will show you how the Demographics form shows Required versus optional fields.
[Accordion] Required Fields
Required fields must be completed before you can save or submit a record. These fields capture the essential data needed for identification, reporting, and regulatory compliance.
If any required information is missing, the system will prompt you to complete it before proceeding. For easy identification, these fields are bolded, displayed in red, and marked with an asterisk (*).
Examples:
- Patient First Name and Last Name
- Date of Birth
- Program or Service Type
- Assigned Staff Member
- Appointment Date and Time
[Accordion] Optional Fields
Optional fields are not mandatory and are used to capture supplemental or supporting information. While these fields can be filled in to provide richer documentation and more detailed reporting, they may be left blank without affecting the system’s ability to save or process the record.
Think of these as "value-add" data points that provide extra context without being strictly required for workflow or compliance.
Examples:
- Middle Name
- Preferred Name or Pronouns
- Secondary Phone Number
- Notes or Comments
- Referral Source
[Accordion] FAQs
[Q] How can I tell which fields are required?
[A] Required fields are clearly marked in the system (for example, with an asterisk or visual indicator) so they’re easy to identify during data entry.
[Q] Can optional fields become required later?
[A] Yes. Depending on system configuration or workflow changes, an administrator may update field settings to make an optional field required.
[Q] Do required fields impact reporting and compliance?
[A] Yes. Required fields ensure that critical data is consistently captured, which supports accurate reporting, workflow processing, and regulatory compliance.
[Q] Can I save a draft without completing required fields?
[A] No. Required fields must be completed before a record can be saved or submitted.
[Accordion] Related Articles
{labels: Top, Toolbar, Buttons, Group Boxes, Input, Configuring your Demographics Form}