A filing system for the gastroenterology/hepatology consultant

Abstract

Objectives: A personal reprint collection is useful to practicing gastroenterologists. Its utility is enhanced when access to information is ensured through an efficient method of filing and retrieval. Our objective was to develop a filing system appropriate for use by gastroenterology/hepatology consultants.

Methods: Analyzing the shortcomings of computer-based and noncomputer-based filing systems, we developed a low-cost, intuitive (organ system-based) filing order with an up-to-date cross-referencing index. Authoritative gastroenterology and hepatology textbooks were consulted to ensure completeness.

Results: The filing system developed is user-friendly, expandable, and can be initiated with little investment of material or time. The system requires no computer and is easily learned. Moreover, this structure can organize both individual and departmental/divisional reprint collections and serve as a template for gastroenterology and hepatology textbooks.

Conclusion: The organ system-based filing scheme presented is a valuable resource for gastroenterology/hepatology consultants.