RESUMO
BACKGROUND: In view of medical care being required more and more, the doctors' tight time should be reserved for tasks which correspond to their qualification. A standardization of certificates might save time and improve quality. OBJECTIVE: This paper overviews the role of certificates and the required examinations in family doctor's everyday practice. Current practices, difficulties and suggestions for improvements were worked out in order to illuminate the potential for standardization. METHODS: In a questionnaire for family doctors data concerning expenditure of time and billing of diverse certificates were collected and quantitatively evaluated. By means of expert interviews difficulties were identified and suggestions for improvement were developed. RESULTS: The use of templates shows a significant saving of time compared to free wording. Also, billing could be enhanced if carried out more systematically. Difficulties are mainly caused by unclear and unrealistic requests. CONCLUSIONS: It's worth being proactive and developing a systematic approach in order to save time and to improve the quality of certificates. Templates facilitate modest certificates, while elaborate certificates need adjustable textmodules and checklists. Consistent information and billing promote patients' understanding.