Medical Record Numbers (MRNs)

A medical record number (MRN) is a unique identifier assigned to each patient within a healthcare organization to accurately track and manage their health information. Historically, medical record numbers were created as part of manual filing systems, where charts and folders were assigned a sequential or coded number to prevent patient files from being misplaced or confused. Before electronic health records, MRNs were often limited to a single facility, meaning patients could end up with different identifiers across clinics or hospitals, complicating continuity of care. Today, MRNs are central to digital recordkeeping and act as the foundation for linking patient health data across systems within a healthcare network.

The importance of medical record numbers lies in their role as unique patient identifiers. An MRN functions as a personal medical number that ensures each record is tied to the correct individual, regardless of how common their name might be. Without MRNs, errors such as a patient mismatch or duplicate records can occur, leading to fragmented medical histories and compromised patient safety. For example, when two patients share the same name and birthdate, a healthcare system without proper record controls could accidentally merge or confuse their files. Similarly, patients with multiple medical records may have incomplete information spread across accounts, creating inefficiencies and risks for providers trying to make clinical decisions. Many organizations must outline distinct policies and procedures for the use, dissemination, maintenance, and privacy of a medical record number.

Medical record numbers are used in nearly every type of healthcare organization, from large hospital systems and specialty clinics to outpatient centers and primary care practices. They provide a way to ensure accuracy in billing, lab results, prescription management, and clinical documentation. Proper MRN management is critical for patient safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Still, challenges arise when data entry errors, lack of standardized processes, or limited interoperability between facilities lead to overlapping or duplicate MRNs. Addressing these challenges requires a blend of policy, technology, and proactive monitoring.

Solutions such as Imprivata Patient Access use advanced biometric technology to strengthen patient identification and avoid relying solely on medical record numbers. While MRNs remain an essential organizational tool, biometrics help prevent errors like patient mismatches or duplicate record creation by verifying identity at the point of care. This ensures that even patients with the same name or birthdate can be distinguished accurately, and those with multiple medical records can be reconciled. By combining traditional medical record numbers with modern identity management solutions, healthcare organizations can achieve stronger accuracy, safeguard patient safety, and streamline care delivery.