Best Practices for Creating Scribe-Enabled Templates

SigmaMD provides a default Scribe-enabled SOAP note template available to all practices. This article covers how to use that template and how to create custom templates optimized for use with the AI Scribe.

Accessing the Templates Screen

  1. Navigate to Practice Settings.
  2. Click on the Templates tab.
  3. From here, you can view, duplicate, or create templates.

Default Template Overview

  • The default template is Scribe-enabled and ready to use as long as the clinician has Scribe access.

  • It cannot be edited or deleted. To customize it, duplicate the template first, then give it a new name.

  • The default template follows the SOAP note format:

    • Subjective – Includes variables such as:

      Chief Complaint

      $patientFullName is a $patientAge yo $patientSex here for [main purpose of visit.]

      • Text inside [ ]  is an instruction to the AI agent and will not appear verbatim in the note.
      • Text outside [ ]  will appear exactly as written in the output note.
      • All variables (e.g., $patientAge ) will be automatically resolved using patient-specific information. Learn more about variables
    • Objective, HPI, and A&P sections follow the same logic with embedded guidance.

Creating a Custom Scribe-Enabled Template

  • Click on Add Note Template.

  • Give your template a clear name.
  • The shortcut will be auto-generated from the name.

  • Toggle “Use for Scribe notes” to ON.

  • Add Global Instructions (Optional)
    • Use the text field under the Scribe toggle for overall guidance to the AI across the entire note.
    • These can reinforce tone, brevity, or clinical detail expectations.
  • Write the Template with Section-Specific Prompts Using [ ]
    • Keep instructions clear and concise.
    • Avoid overly complex logic unless you’re an advanced user.
    • Avoid vague instructions.
    • Keep a clean layout for readability.
    • Use consistent phrasing and formatting across templates.

Additional Tips for Optimizing Scribe Templates

  • Use variables (like $patientAge ) for dynamic content.
  • Use conditional logic with nested templates to generate more personalized content:

    • For example:

      [If exam was normal, use /normalPE. If abnormal, use /abnormalPE.]

    • /normalPE  and /abnormalPE  refer to other predefined templates. These references allow the AI to intelligently insert different note structures depending on what was said during the encounter.

For help duplicating or optimizing your templates, contact the SigmaMD support team.