Learning and Extension Experience in Medical Records: Academic Visit to the Nicolás A. Solano Hospital, La Chorrera District

Students of the program of Medical Records They participated in an enriching field trip focused on hands-on learning, continuing education, and strengthening their professional skills. This academic activity was led by the Mgtr. Kerubis Harris, a professor in the program and head of the Legal Clinic at UMECIT La Chorrera, who accompanied the students throughout the training day.

The visit provided a valuable bridge between theory and practice, within the framework of the existing agreements the University maintains with the Ministry of Health. During the tour, the students observed firsthand the operation of the area of Medical Records of the Nicolás A. Solano Hospital, located in the district of La Chorrera, province of Panama Oeste.

As part of the activities, participants learned about workflows related to clinical records, document management, admission processes, coding, record management, evidence custody, and administrative controls. This experience strengthened their understanding of the hospital system and highlighted the importance of proper medical record management to ensure the overall functioning of a healthcare institution.

The day offered a valuable experiential learning opportunity, allowing students to compare theoretical knowledge with the real-world dynamics of a public hospital. Interaction with healthcare professionals enabled them to appreciate the complexity of managing health information and the ethical and legal responsibilities associated with its protection.

Furthermore, the activity reinforced fundamental skills in the organization, classification, and protection of clinical records, essential elements for traceability of care and for administrative and clinical decision-making. The practical nature of the visit fostered critical reflection, direct observation, and a comprehensive understanding of the role of the medical registrar within the Panamanian healthcare system.

The visit provided a valuable bridge between theory and practice, within the framework of the existing agreements the University maintains with the Ministry of Health. During the tour, the students observed firsthand the operation of the area of Medical Records of the Nicolás A. Solano Hospital, located in the district of La Chorrera, province of Panama Oeste.

As part of the activities, participants learned about workflows related to clinical records, document management, admission processes, coding, record management, evidence custody, and administrative controls. This experience strengthened their understanding of the hospital system and highlighted the importance of proper medical record management to ensure the overall functioning of a healthcare institution.

The day offered a valuable experiential learning opportunity, allowing students to compare theoretical knowledge with the real-world dynamics of a public hospital. Interaction with healthcare professionals enabled them to appreciate the complexity of managing health information and the ethical and legal responsibilities associated with its protection.

Furthermore, the activity reinforced fundamental skills in the organization, classification, and protection of clinical records, essential elements for traceability of care and for administrative and clinical decision-making. The practical nature of the visit fostered critical reflection, direct observation, and a comprehensive understanding of the role of the medical registrar within the Panamanian healthcare system.