Mastering Variables

Variables let you auto-insert patient-specific details (like name, DOB, clinician, etc.) into notes, messages, and templates. They speed up documentation and keep wording consistent across your team.

See the full variable catalog here: List of SigmaMD Variables.

Where to use Variables

Notes & Templates

  • Clinical Notes (inside the text editor)

  • Note templates (with Scribe enabled or not)
  • Snippets

Patient Chart entries

  • Patient directions (medications)
  • Care plan (problems)
  • Management measures (allergies)
  • Memo (Vitals)
  • Follow-up plan (Procedures)

Calendar

  • Internal notes
  • Note to patient

Tasks

  • Description

Inbox

  • Messages
  • Internal notes
  • Fax cover page

Broadcast

  • Subject
  • Message

How to insert a variable

On any of the supported fields listed above:

  1. Place your cursor where the value should appear.
  2. Type $ to open the Variables picker and search for the field you need.
  3. You can advance typing to narrow down the list. E.g.:

  4. Navigate through the list using your keyboard arrows and press Enter to insert the desired variable or click on the one you'd like to insert.

Tips for accurate use

  • Make sure the data exists in the patient’s chart. Missing data will be inserted as blank or as "No records available".
  • Review before sending (messages/broadcasts) to verify the final wording.
  • Keep in mind that variables pull directly from the patient record.

Use variables wherever you document to make your workflow faster, clearer, and more consistent.