Work smarter, not harder – discover how Chrome's built-in split screen can transform your clinical documentation
As healthcare providers, we're constantly juggling multiple systems: checking patient records in our practice management software while documenting in PatientNotes, reviewing lab results while writing clinical notes, or referencing previous visits during consultations. What if you could view both systems simultaneously without constantly switching tabs?
The Hidden Productivity Tool in Your Browser
Chrome's split screen feature is a game-changer that many clinicians don't know exists. This simple yet powerful function allows you to view two tabs side by side within the same browser window – no need for multiple monitors or complicated software.
How It Works: Simple Steps to Split Screen Success
First Time Setup: Enable Split View
If this is your first time using Chrome's split screen feature, you'll need to enable it (just once):
Open Chrome and type chrome://flags in your address bar
Search for "Split View" in the flags page
Click the dropdown next to "Split View" and select "Enabled"
Restart Chrome when prompted
That's it! Once enabled, this feature stays active and you'll never need to do this setup again.
Using Split Screen: Daily Workflow
Now you're ready to use split screen whenever you need it:
Right-click on any tab in your Chrome browser
Select "Add tab to new split view" from the menu (you'll see it marked as "NEW")
Choose your second tab to display alongside the first
Adjust the divider between the two views to your preferred layout
You now have a seamless side-by-side workspace that transforms how you manage multiple systems!
The Perfect Pairing: Practice Software + PatientNotes
This feature is particularly valuable when using PatientNotes alongside your practice management system. Here's how this combination can enhance your workflow:
See it in action: Cliniko practice management on the right , PatientNotes documentation on the left – everything you need in one view
During Patient Consultations:
Keep your practice software open on one side to view patient demographics, appointment details, and medical history
Use PatientNotes on the other side to draft clinical notes using AI assistance
Reference information from your EMR while letting AI help structure your documentation
Real workflow example: View Mr. Darren Test's appointment details in Cliniko while documenting his treatment plan in PatientNotes
For Documentation Review:
Display previous patient encounters from your practice software
Compare side by side with current notes being generated in PatientNotes
Ensure continuity of care while maintaining documentation efficiency
When Handling Administrative Tasks:
Check scheduling or billing information in your practice software
Simultaneously document patient interactions in PatientNotes
Reduce the cognitive load of switching between systems
Benefits Beyond Convenience
The advantages of split screen viewing extend beyond simple convenience:
Reduced Context Switching: Your brain doesn't have to constantly adjust between different screens or remember what you just saw
Improved Accuracy: Direct visual comparison reduces transcription errors when transferring information
Time Savings: No more clicking back and forth between tabs – everything you need is visible at once
Better Focus: Keep your workflow in one unified view, minimizing distractions
Pro Tips for Maximum Efficiency
To get the most out of this feature:
Experiment with the divider position – you might prefer a 60/40 split rather than 50/50 depending on which system you reference more frequently
Use keyboard shortcuts to navigate within each side without disturbing your layout
Create a dedicated Chrome window for clinical work with your preferred split screen setup
Bookmark your most common split screen combinations by keeping the window configuration for quick access
Getting Started Today
You don't need any special software, extensions, or technical expertise. If you're using Chrome, you already have this powerful feature at your fingertips. Try it during your next patient session and experience the difference that seamless, side-by-side access can make in your documentation workflow.
The future of efficient clinical practice isn't always about adopting new technology – sometimes it's about discovering the powerful tools already hiding in plain sight.
Have you tried Chrome's split screen feature? We'd love to hear how it's improved your workflow. Share your experience and tips with fellow healthcare providers!