What Are Templates?
Templates let you define the exact structure, headings, output style, and formatting rules for your clinical documentation. Instead of writing freeform prompts, you now build templates using a visual editor where you can:
Define your own headings and section structure
Choose output styles per section (bullet points, paragraphs, numbered lists, etc.)
Set visibility rules — show sections "Always" or only "If Discussed"
Configure language, punctuation, date format, and medical shorthand preferences
Test your template against a real session before going live
Most users create their first template in under five minutes.
Three Ways to Get Started
Import from Notes — Paste an example of your existing clinical notes and PatientNotes will build a template from them.
Example SOAP — Start with a pre-built SOAP note layout and customise from there.
Start from Scratch — Build your template section by section.
Where Are My Old Prompts?
Your existing prompts haven't gone anywhere. They still work exactly as before and are accessible under the menu tab Letters and Reports
You'll see your prompts listed alongside any letters or reports you've created.
When you're ready, you can convert an old prompt into the new template format using Import from Notes — giving you all the added control of the Template Editor on top of what you've already built. There's no rush to switch.
How to Turn On Templates
Templates are enabled by default for new users. If you don't see the Template Editor, go to Profile > Settings and toggle on Extended Templates.
Need help building your first template? Reach out to our support team — we're happy to help.