A dot phrase is a shorthand or macro used in electronic medical records (EMRs) and electronic health records (EHRs) to quickly insert commonly used text, templates, or phrases. It typically begins with a period (.) followed by a short code. When typed into the system, the dot phrase expands into a full sentence, paragraph, or structured note.
.hpi might expand to "The patient presents with...".normalexam could insert a full normal physical exam template.Dot phrases help save time, maintain consistency in documentation, and reduce typing errors.