Relationship Flowchart

Much like the flowchart, the relationship flowchart shows sequentially the steps in a process. Unlike a flowchart, it also shows who or what department is responsible for carrying out each step. The same flowcharting conventions are used but the sequential steps are separated by role or department. In the following example, a simple relationship flowchart attempts to demonstrate the process surrounding both a walk-in and EMS patient with symptoms of ACS. Although, in this example, there is not a great level of detail, it is still possible to look at the various roles within this process to further define responsibilities and overlap between departments. For example, if the registration clerk is the first point of contact for the walk-in patient, he or she may be responsible for recognizing that a patient is experiencing symptoms of ACS. If the registration clerk is not properly trained, this could be a critical source of delay as valuable time may be lost if this type of patient is registered or sent to the waiting area before receiving treatment.