What is the Multiple Presenting Problems format?

📝 What is the Multiple Presenting Problems format?

Multiple Presenting Problems is a structured note format designed for consultations where the patient presents with more than one concern. It enables clinicians to document and manage each issue individually, helping to maintain clarity, reduce cognitive load, and support follow-up care.

This format is especially useful in general practice, chronic disease management, and allied health settings, where multiple symptoms, conditions, or patient goals may need to be addressed in a single visit.

✏️ Structure

Each presenting problem is documented in its own mini-structure:

Section	Description
Presenting Problem (x)	A short label for the issue — e.g. “knee pain” or “contraceptive review”.
History of Presenting Problem	Context and background specific to that concern — symptoms, timing, and impact.
Examination	Observations, physical findings, or relevant tests related to that issue.
Plan	Recommended action or treatment for that specific problem.

This pattern repeats for each concern raised during the consult.

🏥 When is it used?

Patients presenting with multiple concerns in one visit
Chronic disease reviews (e.g. diabetes, hypertension, joint pain)
Preventative health + acute issue in one session
Mental and physical health issues raised together
Complex care planning

👥 Who uses it?

GPs and Nurse Practitioners
Multidisciplinary clinics
Allied Health and Care Coordinators
Clinicians using Echo-Health who want clarity when multiple topics are discussed

🌍 Where is it available?

Australia and New Zealand
Echo-Health supports this format for both jurisdictions, particularly in clinics with care plans or longer consults.