Abstract: A method and system for enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the electronic health record by quickly creating a progress note entered by a physician with the assistance of a computer readable storage means. The progress note includes a plurality of fields, which contain symptom data and information. The method includes selecting at least one electronic symptom template suited for a specific patient symptom out of the plurality of given electronic symptom templates stored in the storage means. The method then generates a pre-populated progress note wherein symptom data and information is retrieved from the storage means and automatically entered into each field of the progress note. The method and system then provides recommendations, common diagnoses and treatment plans appropriate to the selected symptom.