---
title: "Accessing Old Patients"
description: "How to search for and access records of previously registered patients using ID, name, mobile number, or other filters."
date: 2026-07-19
lastModified: 2026-07-22
category: "patient-management"
author: "Dr. Umesh Bilagi"
beta: false
---

## Overview

As your patient database grows, efficiently finding existing patient records becomes essential. Indian names often have multiple spelling variations, so NICE HMS provides flexible search options.

## Method 1: Direct ID Lookup

If you know the patient's ID:

1. Enter the ID in the **search bar** at the top of the screen (logged-in state).
2. Press **Enter**.
3. The system redirects to the patient management page for that patient.

The patient ID is printed on previous prescriptions, bills, and registration slips.

## Method 2: Search Without ID

1. Log in and click **Patient** from the sidebar.
2. Under the Patient section, click **Search | Edit Patient**.
3. Use the search form:

| Search Field | Best For |
|-------------|----------|
| **Name** (first few letters) | When you know part of the name |
| **Mobile Number** | Most reliable — unique, avoids spelling issues |
| **Gender + Age Range** | Narrowing large result sets |
| **Patient ID** | When the patient has their old slip |
| **ABHA / Health ID** | Patients linked to ABDM |

4. Click **Search**.
5. Click the patient's ID from the results table to open their management page.

## Archiving a Patient

Patients cannot be deleted, only archived. To archive a patient:

1. Search and find the patient using the methods above.
2. Open the patient and switch to **Edit** mode.
3. Set the **Archive** field to **true**.
4. Click **Submit**.

Archived patients are hidden from normal views but retained for compliance. Use the **Archive** filter to view archived records.

## Best Practice

**Always record the correct mobile number.** It is the most reliable lookup field. Mobile numbers are unique, don't have spelling variations, and serve double duty for WhatsApp communication and ABDM OTP verification.

## From the Patient Management Page

Once you've opened the patient record, you can:
- Start a new **OPD registration**
- View **visit history** (past encounters, prescriptions, bills)
- Edit patient **demographics**
- Link/unlink **ABHA Health ID**
- Access **IPD records** (if the patient has been admitted)

## FAQ

**Q: Can I delete a patient record?**
A: No. Patient records cannot be deleted. To hide a patient from normal views, archive them — edit the patient, set Archive to true, and submit. Archived records are retained for compliance.

**Q: What if I find duplicate patient records?**
A: Use the merge feature (Admin access required). See [Merging Duplicate Patients](/docs/merging-duplicate-patients).