The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, Canada, conducted a review program of 1,062 physician practices from 1999 to 2000. 195 physicians were interviewed by a physician member of the Survey Subcommittee.

A chart-stimulated recall was part of the interview. Some observations by the interviewers:

1. In 10 percent of medical records, the diagnosis was not supported by recorded history and physical examination.

2. Doses and quantities of prescribed medications were not recorded in almost 20 percent of visits.

3. 30 percent of charts did not contain risk factors or pediatric growth charts where they would be appropriate.

4. Referral letters were not found in 20 percent of referrals, and the consultants' letters were missing after 12 percent of consultations.

5. In 8 percent of records, abnormalities were not properly considered or did not support the diagnosis.

6. A record low whether allergies exist or not was missing from nearly 25 percent of charts.

Originally from The Messenger, a publication of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, as reported in the Journal of Medical Licensure and Discipline, vol. 87, no 4, 2001, page 157, in "From Our International Exchanges".