1. Written Communications
Chapter 15
Written Communications

2. Composing Correspondence
Correspondence reflects standards of the medical office
Writing tips
Should achieve purpose the author intended
Follow style/format determined by your provider/employer
Organize key points
Establish tone of voice
Use language reader will understand
Sentences should be short and contain one thought

3. Composing Correspondence
Spelling
Must be accurate
Many words not formatted into computer
Commonly misspelled words
Proofreading
(Tables 15-1 and 15-2)
(Figure 15-1)

4. Component Parts of a Business Letter
Date line
Inside address
Salutation
Subject line
Procedure 15-1

5. Component Parts of a Business Letter
Body of letter
Complimentary closing
Keyed signature
Reference initials
Enclosure notations

6. Component Parts of a Business Letter
Copy notation
Postscripts
Continuation page heading
Review Figures 15-2 and 15-3 and Table 15-3

7. Letter Styles
Create a portfolio or database of frequently used form letters
Form letter inclusions
Full block
Modified block
Simplified
Assign or discuss critical thinking box

8. Supplies for Written Communication
Letterhead
Second sheets
Printing multiple page business letters

9. Supplies for Written Communication
Envelopes
General standard for addressing envelopes
Types of envelopes
Mail merge
Assign or discuss critical thinking box
Procedure 15-3
Procedure 15-4

10. Other Types of Correspondence
Memoranda
Meeting agendas
Meeting minutes

11. Processing Incoming and Outgoing Mail
Incoming mail and shipments
Outgoing mail and shipments
Postal classes
Assign or discuss the critical thinking box

12. Processing Incoming and Outgoing Mail
Formats for efficient processing
Zip + 4
Abbreviations
International mail
Legal and ethical issues
Procedure 15-5